These TVP and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers are a simple, satisfying meal packed with plant-based protein and bold fajita-inspired flavors. Tender bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of TVP, basmati rice, corn, and spices, then finished with fresh cilantro and creamy guacamole. They’re wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients for TVP & Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers with Guacamole:
Basmati Rice- Normal white rice or brown rice will work just fine, but for whatever reason, Basmati rice gives this mixture a really nice texture.
Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)- We’re getting our protein from this TVP, which is essentially soy flour. It’s very quick and easy to prepare, you just have to add water and spices! A great vegetarian or vegan protein source.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil- The best oil to use if you’re being health conscious, although other oils will work just as well. We are using the oil in this recipe for sautéing the onion.
Red Onion- White or yellow onions can work too, although red onion technically has more nutritional value (due to it’s color).
Tomato Paste- We just need a little tomato paste to hold all the ingredients together and add a bit of a tomato flavor. You can use tomato paste from a can or from a tube.
Corn- A fresh burst of color and added nutritional value to the overall meal, corn is a great addition. I used frozen, you can use fresh or canned as well.
Fajita Seasoning- Feel free to use taco seasoning in place of fajita seasoning or make your own with spices on hand.
Cilantro- The cilantro adds a burst of flavor, along with some color. You won’t want to skip it.
Red Bell Peppers- Red Bell Peppers go really well with this recipe because they are slightly sweeter than yellow or green peppers and that pairs nicely with the filling. However, you can totally do this recipe with whatever type of pepper you have on hand and it will still be delicious.
Guacamole- Top your pepper with some guacamole or cilantro lime dressing, and you’re all set! Make your guacamole from scratch or grab some from the store. The avocados in the guacamole are a great way to make this recipe a bit more filling.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup Basmati Rice (dry, rinsed)
- 1 cup Textured Vegetable Protein (crumbs)
- 2 tsps Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Red Onion (diced)
- 1 tsp Tomato Paste
- 1/4 cup Corn
- 1 tbsp Fajita Seasoning
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsps Cilantro (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
- 2 Red Bell Pepper (medium, halved, seeds removed)
- 1/3 cup Water
- 1/2 cup Guacamole
Directions:
- Cook the rice according to the package directions.
- Meanwhile, place the textured vegetable protein (TVP) in a bowl and cover it with boiling water. Cover the bowl and let it sit for ten minutes to rehydrate.
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for five minutes or until softened. Add the rehydrated TVP and cook for another ten minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Add the tomato paste, corn, fajita seasoning, and cooked rice to the pan. Season with salt and pepper, stir, then cook for another five minutes. Remove from the heat and add the cilantro.
- Place the bell peppers in a deep baking dish and stuff them evenly with the TVP and rice mixture. Pour the water into the baking dish and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Cook in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the bell peppers are cooked through. Garnish with additional cilantro, serve with guacamole, and enjoy!
Notes:
- Leftovers- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. The guacamole is best enjoyed fresh.
- Serving Size- One serving is approximately two stuffed bell pepper halves and 1/4 cup of guacamole.
- More Flavor- Add jalapeno and mushrooms to the TVP mixture.
- Additional Toppings- Fresh squeezed lime juice after cooking, cilantro lime dressing, or add cheese on top of the pepper before roasting in the oven.
Health Insights:
- Plant-Based Protein- The inclusion of textured vegetable protein provides a rich source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall body function.
- Antioxidants- The vibrant red bell peppers and cilantro contribute significant amounts of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- High Fiber- With a substantial amount of fiber from the basmati rice, corn, and vegetables, this recipe may support digestive health and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
