Look at these peppers! What beautiful colors, right? We found them at the local farmers' market. Both the white and purple peppers have a sweeter taste than a red or green bell pepper. I was staring at them sitting on my counter and decided that making Bell Pepper "Nachos" would be a perfect appetizer for a get together last week.

Don't get confused by the word, "Nacho." After I told my husband what I was cooking, he informed me that where he comes from in the Midwest, "Nachos," only apply to a specific combination of food including salty chips and yellow cheese with an expiration date of never.

These Bell Pepper Nachos are layered with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese. They are delicious and a healthy alternative to the traditional nacho. They can be served as a snack, appetizer, or an addition to a Taco Tuesday themed meal.

Bell Pepper Nachos

4 Bell Peppers or enough to make about 20 "chips"

1 lb ground beef (Preferably from a healthy, happy grass-fed cow)

1/2 onion, minced

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I use white, raw cheddar)

1 tbsp coconut oil or butter

Additional toppings (if desired): green onions, avocado, sour cream, tomatoes, salsa, guacamole.

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Start by mincing the onion and adding it to a hot pan with coconut oil or butter.

Saute for 2-3 minutes, until onion is translucent.

Add ground beef and break apart as it cooks. 5-7 minutes.

Once meat is thoroughly cooked, add cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Set aside.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This just helps with clean up. Trust me, you'll love that you took this step.

Cut each bell pepper into "chip" strips and arrange on your prepared baking sheet.

Scoop seasoned ground beef onto each strip.

Bake "nachos" for about 10 minutes. If you prefer the bell pepper softer, add about 4 tbsp of water to the bottom of the baking sheet (if it has edges), before baking.

At 10 minutes, add cheese and bake for 1-2 more minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

Remove from oven and let cool. Add additional toppings, if desired.

Avocado, tomato, green onions, sour cream, salsa or guacamole are great options!