Protein-Packed Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients

• 4 small to medium bell peppers
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for the peppers
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, plus more for the peppers
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for the baking dish
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 (14-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice
• 3/4 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 (about 15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1 to 2 limes)
• 3/4 cup Mexican shredded cheese blend or shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
• For serving: sour cream, guacamole, cilantro, and/or lime wedges (optional)

Method

1. Step 1
2. Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 375ºF. Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with oil and set aside.
3. Step 2
4. Trim the stems of the bell peppers, if needed, then halve them lengthwise. Remove the ribs and seeds. Arrange the peppers cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Step 3
6. Heat the oil in a large nonstick frying pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion and salt and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, pepper flakes, and black pepper, and cook for 1 minute more. Add the tomatoes and their juices and simmer for 3 minutes more.5 min timer
7. Step 4
8. Stir in the rice, corn, and beans, and cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from the heat. Stir in the cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust the seasonings, if needed.5 min timer
9. Step 5
10. Fill the peppers with the rice mixture, pressing down to pack them tightly. Pour 1/2 cup water into the baking dish and cover it tightly with aluminum foil.
11. Step 6
12. Bake until the peppers are tender, 40 to 45 minutes. Uncover and increase the heat to 400ºF. Sprinkle the cheese on the peppers and continue baking until the cheese is melted, about 10 minutes.45 min timer