As we start 2019 with resolutions to eat cleaner—swapping junk food for fruits and vegetables—it's tough to say goodbye to favorites. That's why nutritionist Rachel Paul (@collegenutritionist on Instagram, with 288,000 followers) shares a brilliant alternative: the bell pepper sandwich. Spotted in the UK, this isn't just adding pepper strips; it's using the crunchy bell pepper halves as the "bread" itself. Her post calling it "the coolest thing ever" racked up 15,000 likes, proving it's a hit for health-conscious eaters.
Rachel notes the dish packs 110 to 140 grams of protein. To make it easier to eat, she suggests: "Cut off the rounded edges to flatten the pepper. Save those slices for dipping in guacamole at your next snack." This prep boosts hydration from the vegetable's high water content—often overlooked compared to drinking water alone. Peppers are far lower in calories and carbs than bread, delivering a light yet filling meal. Fill with chicken, tomatoes, and cheese. Not a pepper fan? Try large tomatoes or thick cucumber slices for similar benefits. Ready to give it a try?