For a hearty and satisfying plant-based dinner, Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Stuffed Bell Peppers offers the perfect combination of creamy comfort food and nutritious, flavorful stuffed vegetables.
This meal pairs rich, smooth mashed potatoes with bell peppers filled with a savory mix of grains, beans, vegetables, and herbs. It’s a well-balanced, nutrient-dense dish that’s as delicious as it is colorful.
Why Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Stuffed bell peppers are a versatile, nutrient-rich dish that can be filled with various grains, legumes, and vegetables, creating a filling and wholesome meal.
Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, and their natural sweetness balances the savory filling.
In this vegan version, we use a combination of grains, beans, and vegetables to pack in flavor and nutrition.
Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes
The vegan mashed potatoes serve as a comforting, rich base for the meal. Using plant-based milk and olive oil or vegan butter, these mashed potatoes are creamy, smooth, and flavorful without the need for dairy. They perfectly complement the stuffed bell peppers.
Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Stuffed Bell Peppers
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
For the Stuffed Bell Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1/2 cup quinoa, rice, or couscous (cooked)
- 1 cup black beans or lentils (cooked)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bell Peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the hollowed-out bell peppers in a baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, black beans or lentils, and cooked quinoa (or other grain). Season with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the mixture is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
- Remove from heat and spoon the filling into the hollowed bell peppers, packing it tightly.
- Bake the Stuffed Bell Peppers:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender. If you prefer the peppers softer, you can bake them for an additional 5-10 minutes uncovered.
- Cook the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the stuffed peppers are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the plant-based milk and olive oil or vegan butter. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the mashed potatoes on a plate alongside the stuffed bell peppers. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve warm and enjoy the combination of creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful stuffed bell peppers!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 14g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Iron: 4mg
- Calcium: 100mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Colorful and Nutritious: Stuffed bell peppers are vibrant and full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this meal as nutritious as it is visually appealing.
- Creamy and Comforting: The mashed potatoes add a creamy, comforting element to the dish, balancing the savory and slightly sweet flavors of the stuffed peppers.
- Rich in Plant-Based Protein: The combination of beans or lentils and quinoa in the stuffed peppers provides a good amount of plant-based protein, making this meal hearty and satisfying.
- Easy to Customize: You can easily switch up the filling by using different grains, vegetables, or legumes. Feel free to experiment with seasonings to make the recipe your own.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Stuffed Bell Peppers is a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying plant-based meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
The creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the savory, protein-packed stuffed peppers, creating a balanced and nourishing dish.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress.
Enjoy this meal as is, or pair it with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for an even more complete and satisfying dining experience!
