Tomato Basil Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

This stuffed pepper recipe has become a weekly go-to—a quick and easy delight that only takes around 30 minutes to cook. It's the perfect solution for lunch and dinner leftovers throughout the week, and I never seem to tire of its deliciousness!

Having faced various gut issues, SIBO being one of them, this recipe has been a steadfast favorite that never leaves me feeling bloated or uncomfortable. SIBO, a condition involving bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, can make digesting certain foods challenging. Many healthy options like apples, asparagus, garlic, onions, beans, cruciferous veggies, gluten, dairy, and fermented foods can lead to bloating and discomfort. SIBO is treatable, often linked to factors such as low stomach acid, slow motility, chronic constipation, and thyroid disorders.

Stay tuned for more posts delving into this topic! If you're experiencing these symptoms, this recipe is tailored for you. Red peppers, tomatoes, spices, lean organic proteins, and healthy fats are generally well-tolerated for those dealing with SIBO. However, if you don't face gut issues and aim for a high-protein, low-carb diet, this recipe has options to help you reach your goals!

Benefits:

This recipe is:

• Low fodmap (if you use a low fodmap tomato sauce like Fody Foods)

• Gluten free

• Dairy free

• High protein

Key Ingredients & Nutrients:

• Red peppers are nutritional powerhouses, boasting high levels of vitamin C, B6, antioxidants, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Surprisingly, they pack more vitamin C than citrus fruits! Loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, red peppers support eye health, promote youthful skin, and contribute to heart health and blood sugar regulation. Consuming vitamin C with iron aids in iron absorption, amplifying their health benefits.

• Organic ground turkey emerges as a versatile and easy-to-cook lean protein source, beneficial for metabolism, muscle development, weight loss goals, and blood sugar regulation. Packed with iron, B vitamins, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc, it complements the bell peppers for enhanced iron absorption. While animal proteins have their merits, choosing organic options is crucial to avoid ingesting antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, herbicides, GMOs, and more. Investing in organic ensures better overall health, as we truly become what we eat.

• Basil, a delightful herb available fresh or dried, elevates the flavor of salads and recipes. Beyond its culinary prowess, basil displays anti-inflammatory properties, reducing gas, nausea, and improving symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). With antiseptic qualities, some cultures even use crushed basil on bug bites. Add it to your favorite pestos, sauces, salads, pizzas, and stir-frys for a tasty and healthful boost.

• Tomatoes, vibrant in their red hue, are nutrient-rich, offering vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, folate, and lycopene. Lycopene, a potent antioxidant, reduces the risk of heart disease and cancer. With high fiber and water content, tomatoes aid in weight maintenance, blood sugar control, and hydration. Incorporate these wholesome ingredients into your meals for a delicious and health-conscious culinary experience!

Ingredients:

• Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 pound organic ground turkey

  • 1/2 jar organic tomato basil sauce (I use Traders Joes or the Whole Foods brand. For low fodmap try FodyFoods)

  • 4 organic red bell peppers, cut in half and seeds removed

  • 1 cup starch (Choose based on your goals):

    • For SIBO/low FODMAP: Jasmine rice

    • For higher protein: Quinoa

    • For low carb: Cauliflower rice

  • 1 tablespoon chopped basil

  • Himalayan sea salt and pepper to taste

  • (Optional) Organic mozzarella cheese for topping (if not dairy-free)

  Servings: 4

  Prep Time: 15 minutes

  Cook Time: 15 minutes

Instructions:

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.

• Prepare Peppers: Cut the peppers in half, removing the seeds. Place them face up on a sheet pan, lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and then turn them face down. Roast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until they start to brown slightly.

• Cook Quinoa or Rice: Meanwhile, cook 1/2 cup quinoa or jasmine rice in 1 cup of water on the stove according to the package instructions. Set aside.

• Cook Ground Turkey: Heat a large pan on the stove with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned.

• Prepare Peppers for Stuffing: Remove the peppers from the oven and set them aside on a cooling rack.

• Combine Ingredients: In the same pan with the cooked ground turkey, add 1/2 jar of tomato basil sauce (adjust to taste), along with 1 cup of the cooked rice or quinoa and 1 tablespoon of basil. Simmer and stir to combine.

• Stuff Peppers: Divide the ground turkey mixture evenly among the peppers.

• Bake Again: Place the stuffed peppers in the oven for an additional 10 minutes or until the tops are browned.

• Optional: Add Cheese (if not dairy-free): If you're not dairy-free, consider adding organic mozzarella to the top of your peppers before placing them in the oven.

• Enjoy: Once done, remove from the oven and enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers! 😊

Let me know what you think!

I hope you enjoy this recipe!! It’s budget friendly and great for an easy dinner or meal prep during the week! I like to heat it up in my air fryer and will add a side of vegetables such as green beans or zuchhini. Enjoy :)