Ingredients:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Greek yogurt or sour cream, hot sauce, shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake Sweet Potatoes: Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes. Pierce each one several times with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Prepare Filling: While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
- Season the Filling: Add the lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the filling mixture. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Stuff the Sweet Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, let them cool slightly. Cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise and gently scoop out some of the flesh to create a well for the filling. You can save the scooped-out sweet potato for another use or mix it into the filling.
- Fill and Serve: Spoon the quinoa and bean mixture into each sweet potato half. Top with any optional toppings like Greek yogurt, hot sauce, or shredded cheese.
- Enjoy: Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes warm and enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
Conclusion:
These stuffed sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, which promote healthy skin, vision, and immune function. The quinoa and black beans provide a great source of plant-based protein and essential amino acids, while the colorful mix of vegetables offers a variety of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. The healthy fats from the avocado help in the absorption of these nutrients and support heart health. This recipe is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal that supports your overall well-being. Enjoy the vibrant taste and the health benefits that come with every bite!