Live Whole Health #254: Savoring simplicity with Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

During the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of festivities and indulgence. But amidst the hustle and bustle, it’s important to remember the value of simplicity and balance when it comes to meals and self-care.

Simple is underrated

While holiday meals often bring visions of elaborate feasts and decadent treats, there’s beauty in simplicity. Opting for simple, nourishing meals can help keep you grounded and energized amidst the chaos. Focus on incorporating a balance of whole foods like lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables into your meals to ensure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs to thrive.

In between holiday gatherings and treats, prioritize eating balanced meals that leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. This can help prevent overindulgence and keep your energy levels steady throughout the day. Remember to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues and to honor your cravings in moderation.

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Check out this 7-minute cooking demonstration by VHA’s very own Healthy Teaching Kitchen preparing a warm and cozy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet recipe. This easy and fussless twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a comforting experience, showcasing the harmonious balance between nourishing our bodies and nurturing our mental well-being.

Practicing self-care is essential during the busy holiday season. By keeping meals simple and balanced, and by prioritizing self-care, you can navigate the holiday season with grace and ease. Remember to savor the moments of joy and connection that come with this special time of year, and above all, be gentle with yourself. Wishing you a season filled with peace, love and deliciously simple meals!

This video is part of the Healthy Teaching Kitchen video series to promote healthy eating habits and provide a nutritious and delicious recipe.

Hungry for more?

Hungry for more information, tips, and ideas for how to have a healthy relationship with Food and Drink and fuel your own wellness journey? Check out this Introduction to Food and Drink for Whole Health, Healthy Tips on Eating Out and Grocery Shopping, or this Veteran’s experience with healthy cooking classes at her local VA. For more recipes, please visit VA’s Nutrition and Food Services.

Recipe

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 40 minutes

Yield: 4 servings | Serving Size: 1½ cups

Ingredients

1 lb (16 ounces) lean ground turkey or chicken (90% lean or higher)

1/2 cup uncooked quick-cooking brown rice

1 (14.5-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes

1 (8-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce

1 cup (8 ounces) low-sodium beef broth

1 medium yellow or orange bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)

1 medium red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)

1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)

1 Tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp dried Italian seasoning blend

1/2 tsp ground black pepper Dash cayenne (optional)

3/4 cup shredded Italian or cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.

2. Add the ground turkey or chicken. Cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks.

3. Add the rice and cook, stirring often, for about 2 minutes.

4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, broth, bell peppers, onion, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer.

6. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for the amount of time listed on the rice package. Stir every 5-10 minutes while the rice cooks.

7. When the rice is tender, turn off the heat and sprinkle the cheese over the top.

8. Cover the pan with the lid and let sit until the cheese melts, about 5 minutes.

9. Serve warm.

NOTE: For a Tex-Mex flavor, try substituting salsa for the tomato sauce and taco seasoning for the Italian seasoning.

Recipe Notes

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 420 | Total Fat: 18 g | Saturated Fat: 7 g Sodium: 260 mg |

Total Carbohydrate: 33 g | Dietary Fiber: 6 g | Protein: 32 g For more recipes, please visit