This baked quinoa casserole is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines quinoa with vegetables and cheese, making it a perfect main course or side dish. It’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.
The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s a great option for meal prep or a family dinner.
Overview of the Baked Quinoa Casserole
This baked quinoa casserole is a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal.
It features fluffy quinoa, vibrant vegetables, and a generous topping of melted cheese, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Perfect as a main course or a side, this casserole is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this casserole lies in its colorful ingredients.
Fresh bell peppers, zucchini, and corn contribute not only to the dish’s visual appeal but also to its nutritional value.
Each ingredient plays a role in enhancing the overall taste, from the sweetness of the corn to the slight crunch of the peppers.
Using high-quality cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or cheese varieties to suit your preferences.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this casserole is straightforward and can be accomplished in just a few steps.
Start by cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth, which infuses it with flavor.
While the quinoa cooks, sauté the vegetables in olive oil until they are tender, allowing their natural sweetness to emerge.
Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture to a rustic baking dish and top it with cheese before baking.
The result is a golden, bubbly casserole that is sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions
This baked quinoa casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.
The casserole also makes for excellent leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Health Benefits
Quinoa is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with protein and fiber, making this dish a wholesome choice.
The variety of vegetables not only adds flavor but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.
With a balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats, this casserole can be a part of a balanced diet.
Creating a Cozy Atmosphere
Serving this casserole in a rustic baking dish on a wooden table enhances the warm and inviting feel of the meal.
The presentation adds to the overall experience, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends.
The combination of flavors and the inviting atmosphere will surely make this dish a favorite at your table.
Easy Baked Quinoa Recipe
This baked quinoa casserole features fluffy quinoa mixed with sautéed vegetables, topped with cheese, and baked until golden. The dish takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, zucchini, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in half of the shredded cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Transfer the quinoa mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 32g