Healthy Italian Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground turkey or lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the peppers:
   • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
   • Lightly brush or spray them with olive oil.
   • Place them upright in a baking dish.
3. Cook the filling:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey (or beef) until browned.
   • Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes.
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
   • Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, then mix in the cooked quinoa (or brown rice).
4. Stuff the peppers:
   • Fill each bell pepper with the turkey and quinoa mixture.
   • Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake:
   • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy!