Bright, colorful bell peppers stuffed with lean turkey, spinach, and spices make for a protein-rich, hearty meal that’s low in carbs but high in flavor. This dish is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Bell peppers provide antioxidants like vitamin C, while turkey and spinach deliver essential nutrients like iron and lean protein to keep you energized. It’s a satisfying and versatile meal that fits into any healthy eating plan.
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers
Course: Lunch, DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium4
servings15
minutes35
minutes250
kcalIngredients
4 large bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (optional)
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup low-sodium tomato sauce
½ cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Peppers: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the halved peppers cut side up in a baking dish.
- Cook the Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add ground turkey, cooking until browned. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season and Combine: Mix in cooked quinoa (if using), paprika, Italian seasoning, and ½ cup of tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the turkey mixture evenly into the peppers. Top with remaining tomato sauce.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with mozzarella (if using), and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve: Let cool slightly and serve warm.
Notes
- Why It Works: This meal combines lean protein from turkey, fiber from spinach and peppers, and complex carbohydrates from quinoa for a well-rounded, low-glycemic meal that helps stabilize blood sugar levels. The vibrant vegetables are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation. Its low-calorie and high-protein content make it ideal for weight management and blood sugar control, especially for people with pre-diabetes.
