Microwavable Rice Stuffed Peppers
Colorful stuffed peppers filled with a flavorful rice and tomato mixture, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that suits busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut a thin slice from the end of each green pepper, remove seeds and membrane, then rinse.
- Arrange the peppers in a 9-inch pie plate.
- Mix chopped tomato, uncooked instant rice, chopped onion, raisins (if using), margarine, and salt in a bowl.
- Fill each pepper with approximately 2/3 cup of the mixture.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of water into each stuffed pepper.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap or microwave-safe lid and microwave on high for 6 minutes.
- Rotate the plate 1/2 turn and microwave for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until peppers are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist, substitute the margarine with olive oil. You can also use brown rice instead of instant rice for added texture and nutrition; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding spices like cumin or paprika can enhance the flavor. If you want a little crunch, try topping with crushed tortilla chips before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own but pair wonderfully with a side salad, such as E-Z Fruit Salad, to balance the flavors. For a heartier option, serve with some crusty bread. A dollop of yogurt or sour cream on top can add a creamy touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. You can also place them in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwavable Rice Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 327 calories, with 6g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (356% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2024mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. Just cover them tightly and they will last for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply follow the microwaving instructions without needing to defrost.
What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
You can customize the filling by adding vegetables like diced zucchini, corn, or black beans for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure that they are pre-cooked or finely chopped so they soften during the microwaving process.
Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked stuffed peppers. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the microwave instructions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).