Kitty's Kitchen: Stuffed Peppers

Ever had one of those meals that you never liked as a kid, but now as an adult you love? Funny how our tastes change over time isn't it? Stuffed peppers was one of those that I never liked- honestly can't say I ever had it as a child, but never chose it given the opportunity because it was one of those weird "grown up foods"... in that same category as brussels sprouts (another favorite of mine!)

Any who, This whole idea of back to the basics came from my husband actually. I had a rough week in the kitchen and nothing I cooked seemed to turn out right. I was wasting time trying to be creative and different and in the end I was failing.... Any one else experienced this??? (it's ok to raise your hand, no one's looking!)

He said to me, why don't you just get back to the basics. Ya know, the simple things you used to cook? They were always so good and you didn't mess them up. I appreciate you trying new things, but I really don't care about spaghetti squash....

Then it hit me- he's right. I've been going out of my way to try all these elaborate things, when really the best and most reliable are the simple basic meals.

So here we go!!!

Stuffed peppers

ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (or can be ground turkey)
1 cup quinoa
1/2 cup salsa (or 10 oz diced tomatoes)
1/2 can mixed vegetables
4 medium to large bell peppers (seeded and halved)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth

**Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.

1. Combine 1 cup quinoa with 1 1/2 cups chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook covered for 10-12 minutes.
2. When oven reaches temperature, place peppers on baking sheet (I used a deep pan with sides), spritz/drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt or salt and pepper- your choice.

3. Cook peppers from 7-10 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. While quinoa and peppers are cooking, begin browning the beef in a large skillet.
5. When beef is done, drain and return to skillet. Mix in the vegetables and salsa, stirring until combined and warm. Transfer beef mixture to medium sized bowl. Also make sure to watch peppers and bring them out of the oven.
6. When quinoa is done, add to beef mixture and mix until evenly combined.