Save Nothing sets the mood for a spooky October dinner like these Vegan Jack-o-Lantern Stuffed Peppers bright orange bell peppers carved with cheerful faces and brimming with a hearty protein rich filling
I started making these peppers for our annual family pumpkin carving night and every year they have become a must have part of our spooky spread Even my pickiest eater smiles at his own edible jack o lantern
Ingredients
- Orange bell peppers: Bring color and softness when roasted and offer the best classic jack o lantern vibe You can swap in red or yellow peppers for a rainbow effect
- Olive oil: Provides richness and keeps the onions from sticking Choose quality extra virgin for best flavor
- Yellow onion: Adds sweet depth when sautéed Dice for even cooking and gentle flavor
- Garlic: Brings warmth and a subtle edge Mince fine for best distribution
- Cooked quinoa: The filling’s protein anchor Fluff it so grains stay separate and toothsome
- Black beans: Hearty and add richness Use canned or freshly cooked and rinse to remove excess salt
- Corn kernels: Give pops of sweetness Fresh if in season frozen works perfectly too
- Baby spinach: Boosts nutrients and brings color Chop finely so it wilts evenly in the mix
- Tomato and tomato paste: Provide bright acidity and umami Look for ripe fresh tomato and concentrated paste
- Smoked paprika: Delivers subtle smokiness Spanish smoked varieties are exceptionally fragrant
- Ground cumin: Earthiness makes the filling feel hearty Choose a fresher bottle for max flavor
- Chili powder: Heats things up just enough Adjust to taste and use mild for little ones
- Salt and black pepper: Round everything out Taste after sautéing and adjust for balance
- Vegan shredded cheese: Makes the baked top gooey and comforting Choose a meltable vegan brand if possible
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers:
- Cut the tops off each bell pepper then gently remove all seeds and white membranes This keeps the cavity clean and easy to stuff Use a small paring knife to carve jack o lantern faces into the side of each pepper Aim for triangles and jagged smiles for authentic effect
- Make the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add chopped onions and cook gently stirring for three to four minutes until translucent not browned This step sweetens the onions and makes for richer flavor Add minced garlic and stir constantly for one minute until just fragrant
- Combine the Vegan Filling:
- Add cooked quinoa black beans corn chopped spinach diced tomato and tomato paste into skillet Sprinkle in smoked paprika cumin chili powder and season with salt plus black pepper Stir everything together thoroughly so the spices coat gently Cook the mixture for four to five minutes stirring every minute or so until spinach wilts and filling is heated evenly The tomato paste should distribute smoothly and thicken the mixture
- Stuff and Top the Peppers:
- Spoon the hot filling carefully into each carved pepper cavity Press gently so it fills every space leaving a bit at the top for cheese Sprinkle with vegan shredded cheese if desired pop the pepper tops back on as festive lids
- Bake the Jack o Lanterns:
- Arrange peppers upright in a baking dish lined with parchment Cover loosely with foil to trap steam and bake thirty minutes Remove foil then bake for another ten minutes until peppers feel tender and cheese is melted on top
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the peppers cool slightly for easier serving This helps flavors settle and makes the peppers less fragile
Save Every Halloween my son picks out his favorite shape for carving and helps with stuffing the peppers Himself he claims the triangle eyes are the spookiest Family nights feel more special when we get creative with our dinner and let everyone personalize their pepper
Storage Tips
Cool any leftovers completely then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Leftover peppers reheat well in the oven or microwave though the jack o lantern faces may soften a bit
Ingredient Substitutions
Brown rice bulgur or couscous fit in perfectly if quinoa is not your favorite For extra flavor add chopped jalapeños or swap black beans for pinto beans Mix in leftover roasted veggies for more variety
Serving Suggestions
Pair these peppers with crisp green salad dressed in a citrusy vinaigrette or roasted baby potatoes Make a platter for Halloween gatherings and scatter fresh herbs for festivity
Cultural and Historical Context
Stuffed peppers appear across many cuisines but this Halloween friendly version puts a whimsical spin on a classic American comfort dish Jack o lanterns themselves go back centuries as autumn symbols adopted by pumpkin loving celebrations
Seasonal Adaptations
Use red or yellow peppers in the spring for a bright sunny dish Try fresh garden spinach and corn for a late summer harvest meal Swap tomato for butternut squash when autumn arrives for an earthier flavor
Success Stories
A neighbor once stopped by while these were baking in my kitchen the scent alone convinced her to bring her kids to our party Now it is our little ritual sharing spicy jack o lantern peppers as soon as late October rolls around
Freezer Meal Conversion
Stuff your carved peppers then freeze the filled uncooked peppers tightly wrapped When ready to bake allow to thaw overnight then bake as directed for colorful dinner any time
Save These vegan jack o lantern peppers are sure to make your celebration both delicious and memorable Enjoy them with loved ones for a truly festive dinner
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I carve jack-o'-lantern faces on bell peppers?
Use a sharp paring knife to carefully cut fun faces on one side of each pepper after removing the tops and seeds.
- → Can I substitute quinoa in the filling?
Yes, swap quinoa for cooked brown rice, bulgur, or couscous to suit your preference or available grains.
- → Is vegan cheese necessary for these stuffed peppers?
No, vegan cheese is optional; you can omit it or use your favorite shredded plant-based cheese for topping.
- → Can the peppers be prepared ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the peppers ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving for convenience.
- → How do I ensure the peppers are tender when baked?
Bake covered for 30 minutes to steam, then uncover for another 10 minutes to finish until fully tender.
- → Are there gluten or major allergens in this dish?
No common allergens are present; always check vegan cheese and packaged items to be sure.