Sip, Scroll, and Learn
(Midlife Edition)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

If you love a classic tuna melt but want a lighter, lower-carb option, these Tuna Melt Stuffed Peppers are the perfect solution. Sweet roasted bell peppers are filled with a creamy tuna mixture loaded with crunchy vegetables, topped with melted cheddar cheese, and baked until warm and bubbly. Packed with protein and fiber, this satisfying meal is ideal for lunch or a quick weeknight dinner while supporting balanced blood sugar and healthy aging.

Ingredients

• 1 red bell pepper, cut in half and seeds removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 oz. (140g) can tuna, drained
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 4 tablespoons shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons diced green onion, plus extra for garnish
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the bell pepper halves on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and rub the oil over both the inside and outside of the peppers.
4. Bake for 10–15 minutes, until the peppers are just fork tender.
5. While the peppers are baking, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, celery, carrots, green onion, Greek yogurt, hot sauce, and Dijon mustard.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
7. Remove the peppers from the oven and evenly divide the tuna mixture among the pepper halves.
8. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
9. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
10. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onion.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Pro Tips & Swaps

• Add extra crunch: Mix in diced cucumber or water chestnuts with the tuna filling.
• Boost the protein: Add an extra ounce of tuna or stir in a chopped hard-boiled egg.
• Try different cheeses: Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack are great alternatives.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute a dairy-free yogurt and cheese.
• Add healthy fats: Slice avocado on top before serving for extra creaminess and nutrition.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
• Avoid microwaving for too long, as the peppers can become overly soft.
• Not recommended for freezing due to changes in texture.

Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: 321
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 20g

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.