Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your choice)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they become translucent.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well to combine.
6. Let the filling simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Arrange the halved bell peppers in a baking dish.
8. Spoon the filling mixture into each pepper half, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
9. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Serve the Stuffed Peppers hot, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in this satisfying and wholesome dish.