Fiber Forward Stuffed Bell Peppers

I make these stuffed peppers on weekends and keep them ready in the fridge for meal prep during the week, and I always come back to the same swap.

Ingredients

4 to 6 bell peppers, any color
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground turkey (or ground beef)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, chopped (optional)
5 cloves garlic, chopped
14.5 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes, canned
1 cup shredded cheese
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked tricolor wild rice
1/2 cup cooked lentils, optional
Fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for garnish

Method

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F and boil a pot of water.
  • Wash the peppers, slice off the tops, and scoop out the insides.
  • Blanch the peppers for 5 minutes to soften, then place them in a lightly oiled baking dish.
  • Cook the onion and jalapeño in a pan over medium heat for 5 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  • Add the turkey and cook until browned.
  • Stir in the tomatoes, seasonings, rice, and lentils, if using, then remove from heat.
  • Mix in half of the cheese.
  • Stuff the peppers, top with the remaining cheese, and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender and bubbly.

Health Benefits


Tricolor wild rice provides fiber, supporting digestion and stable blood sugar. A 2024 review in Frontiers in Nutrition by Alahmari found that higher fiber intake is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and colon cancer.

Lentils, if added, provide additional fiber and plant based protein, supporting muscle maintenance and a longer lasting sense of fullness.

Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, supporting immune function and collagen production.

Lean ground turkey provides quality protein with less saturated fat than beef, supporting heart health.

Garlic and onion contain sulfur compounds that support healthy inflammation levels.

Cumin or chili powder can vary the flavor without altering the nutritional value.

Please consult your doctor before making significant diet changes.

Wishing you a wealth of health.

Dr. Michelle Mendoza, MD
Board Certified Internal Medicine and Integrative Medicine
1309 Montana Ave, El Paso, TX 79902
915 585 1300
vitalitymdwellness.com