why make this recipe
Easy Quinoa Casserole is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for everyone. It combines protein-packed quinoa with nutritious vegetables and spices. This recipe is great because it’s simple to make, requires just a few ingredients, and is perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or even as a hearty snack!
how to make Easy Quinoa Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water and then combine it with vegetable broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until cooked, about 15 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, bell pepper, spinach, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. If using, sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm.
how to serve Easy Quinoa Casserole
You can serve Easy Quinoa Casserole hot straight from the oven. It goes well with a simple salad or some fresh bread on the side. This dish is also great for leftovers, so feel free to make a big batch!
how to store Easy Quinoa Casserole
To store Easy Quinoa Casserole, let it cool completely after cooking. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 4-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven or microwave.
tips to make Easy Quinoa Casserole
- Make sure to rinse the quinoa well before cooking to remove any bitterness.
- Feel free to add more vegetables based on your preference, like zucchini or carrots.
- If you want a spicier dish, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
variation
You can customize Easy Quinoa Casserole to suit your taste. Try adding cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for extra protein. You can also switch up the spices for a different flavor profile, such as adding Italian herbs or using curry powder.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
A: Yes, you can use chicken broth if you prefer. It will add a different flavor to the casserole.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this Easy Quinoa Casserole is gluten-free since quinoa is a gluten-free grain.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before, store it in the fridge, and simply bake it the next day.