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I figured that since everyone's talking "stuffing" these days as we countdown to the big T-Day, I'd share a fun "stuffing" recipe that that we developed recently for The California Avocado Commission.
We didn't stuff a turkey for this feature, but some beautiful, fresh, bell peppers instead. I love that, even though the cold winds are starting to blow here in North Carolina and we've been enjoying all kinds of delightful seasonal produce, I'm still seeing gorgeous displays of peppers in vibrant shades of yellow, orange and red.
I had a lot of fun with this Stuffed Bell Peppers with California Avocados and Barley recipe; taking the lovely peppers and quickly par-boiling to soften them just a bit. Creamy avocados, crisp cucumbers, diced red onion are combined with barley, a wonderful ancient grain that's loaded with protein, fiber and has a pasta-like consistency. It's one of those super foods; loaded with fiber, protein and is very beneficial in preventing heart disease and promoting healthy blood sugar. For many years barley was relegated to soups, ".... that mom used to make.", but it's rapidly gaining popularity as more of its health benefits are being discovered. I've been trying to incorporate more and more delicious ancient grains into our diet in creative ways, like this delicious Roasted Butternut Salad with Barley & Candied Bacon we posted a few weeks ago.
To tie all the fabulous ingredients together for the stuffed peppers, I came up with a simple lemony garlic dressing. Just throw the ingredients in a jar and shake. Oh, and there's a generous measure of fresh herbs, adding a delightful finishing touch.
If you're looking for something healthy, delicious and very satisfying to add to your holiday menus or everyday rotations, be sure to check out The California Avocado Commission's website for this fabulous recipe.
Disclaimer:
We are compensated by The California Avocado Commission for our recipe development and photography, but the opinions are very much our own.
Mr. & Mrs. P says
Very easy and healthy side!!!! Love everything about it, specially the bright colors!!!
Joyce Olson says
Chris,
What a beautiful side dish these would make for Thanksgiving-the vibrant color and the nutrition- or for a family dinner during the middle of the week. I like how you are incorporating ancient grains too-my daughter is very knowledgeable in this area and while we are visiting her this week, she is preparing very healthy meals for us-
Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving-
Jemma
Tricia @ Saving room for dessert says
What a beautiful pepper Chris. You take such care in your presentation and photos. They are truly amazing. And I bet the stuffed peppers are incredible too! Please come and cook for me 🙂 Any of your salads or healthy stuff is fine - I'm not picky! Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving 🙂
Vicki Bensinger says
These sound wonderful and look so inviting. I really need to hire your husband to come help me with my photos. I'm so jealous! By the way, I loved the photo of you and Liz. Hope you guys had a great time!
Sandra Lee says
I hope that when the Avocado Commission counts their blessings, you're at the top of the list. You have been masterful at developing these recipes.
Claire @ Claire K Creations says
Chris these are just too pretty! I can imagine them in red green and yellow lining a Christmas table!
Laura (Tutti Dolci) says
I love stuffed bell peppers, these look delicious!
Madonna/aka/Ms Lemon of Make Mine Lemon says
Chris, I will be making this after turkey day and a round of leftovers I will be needed a fresh salad to ease my guilt.
Patty Price says
Wow-pretty and healthy!!! Love the vibrant colors in this stuffed pepper dish-just gorgeous Chris 😉
Kim G. says
What a great and healthy meal! I wish I could eat peppers!
Kitchen Riffs says
Gorgeous! And looks awfully tasty, too. Super recipe - loads of flavor and such great looks. Thanks for this.
Gloria Baker says
always your food is sooo beautiful Chris! I love it!!
Angie Schneider says
A really healthy and delicious stuffed pepper recipe, Chris. The clicks are amazing...
Debra Eliotseats says
What a great healthy fresh salad. Great stuffing alternative. LOL. I am actually cooking the Thanksgiving meal today but I would relish this salad!
Lynn@Happier Than a Pig in Mud says
Very healthy and pretty Chris! Happy Thanksgiving Week:@)
Jennifer@ Peanut Butter and Peppers says
Wow! What a great idea! I am sooooooooo into this!! I just love stuffed peppers and with California style, yes please!!! Awesome recipe Chris!
Lenia says
This is sheer beauty!Love it!
Kisses,dear Chris!
Pamela @ Brooklyn Farm Girl says
Love the ideas of peppers and avocado, gotta give that a try!