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Spooky Jack-o'-Lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers

This dish involves hollowing out colorful bell peppers and carving them into mini jack-o'-lanterns with spooky faces. The peppers are filled with a seasoned mixture of grains, vegetables, and cheese, then baked until tender and golden, resulting in festive, edible decorations with a melty, cheesy interior and crunchy edges.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seasonal
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers preferably orange or multicolored for visual effect
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice cooled
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack works well
  • 1 cup chopped vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut off the tops of each bell pepper and set aside. Use a small spoon or knife to hollow out the seeds and membranes from inside, creating a smooth cavity, and set the pepper lids aside. Carve spooky faces into each pepper using a sharp knife to create eyes, nose, and a jagged mouth for that classic jack-o'-lantern look.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped vegetables, sautéing until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture cool slightly, then mix it into the cooked grains and cheese until well combined.
  3. Fill each carved-out bell pepper with the grain and vegetable mixture, pressing gently to pack in the filling and avoid any overflowing. Place the filled peppers upright on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each pepper with a little extra cheese if desired, then place the carved tops back on or arrange as decoration nearby.
  4. Bake the peppers in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred around the edges, and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning the cheese.
  5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the peppers cool for a few minutes. Carefully transfer them to serving plates, and if desired, add extra spooky face details with additional cheese or herbs for a more festive appearance. Serve warm and enjoy the cheerful, savory presentation.

Notes

Optional: Use different colored peppers for a more vibrant display. Feel free to customize the carved faces for variety.