Name: Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491738H19M1S
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup baby spinach, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; ½ tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup tomato sauce; ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream); ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup chopped parsley or basil

Dive into a delightful and nourishing experience with our Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole! This vibrant and wholesome dish is a perfect blend of heartiness and color, making it as appetizing to the eyes as it is to the palate. The focus keyphrase here is “Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole,” which promises to deliver a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Imagine biting into a flavorful mixture of fluffy quinoa, fresh vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, topped with a savory combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese — each spoonful more indulgent than the last. Not only is this casserole a feast for the taste buds, but it also brings health benefits, being rich in protein and packed with a variety of vegetables, perfect for those who wish to eat healthy without compromising on flavor. Plus, it’s make-ahead-friendly, which means you can prepare it in advance, freeze it, and bake whenever you’re ready to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply indulge in a comforting homemade meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole

This casserole offers numerous benefits that make it an irresistible choice for any meal:

Hearty and Wholesome: A nutritious, filling dish that’s perfect for a main meal.
Vibrant and Colorful: Loaded with an array of colorful vegetables, making it visually appealing.
Easy Make-Ahead: Prepare ahead of time and simply bake when needed.
Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melty mozzarella and zingy Parmesan, it offers an irresistible cheesy taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process for this Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole, it’s important to set up your kitchen for success. Start by organizing your counter space and assembling all the necessary ingredients for easy reach. Ensure you have a large saucepan for cooking quinoa, and a versatile skillet to sauté the vegetables. A mixing bowl will be essential for combining the sauce ingredients, while a 9×13-inch baking dish will serve as the casserole’s final resting place. Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) for a perfectly baked outcome. Measuring cups and spoons, along with a whisk for the sauce, will ensure your mix is smooth. Lastly, keep a spatula ready for transitioning ingredients from the skillet to the mixing bowl. By preparing your workspace and tools ahead of time, you’ll streamline the cooking process, allowing for a focused and enjoyable experience.

Ingredients

To make a delectable Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole, you’ll need:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup baby spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup tomato sauce
½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped parsley or basil

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Begin by heating the vegetable broth in a large saucepan until it reaches a rolling boil. Add the rinsed quinoa and cover the pan. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 12–15 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Incorporate the diced zucchini, chopped bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet vibrant. Stir in the chopped spinach, along with oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts slightly, then remove the skillet from the heat.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

Combine the tomato sauce with Greek yogurt in a medium bowl, stirring until smooth. If you love a bit of heat, add in the red pepper flakes and mix well. This combo creates a creamy and tangy sauce that will be layered between the quinoa and veggies.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed veggies, and prepared sauce, tossing them gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes once out of the oven. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an aromatic finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

Protein: Add chickpeas or cooked chicken for an extra protein boost.
Vegetables: Substitute or add vegetables like artichokes, kale, or asparagus for more variety.
Spices: Enhance flavor with spices like cumin, coriander, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the quinoa is fluffy by thoroughly rinsing it to remove bitterness.
Avoid overcooking the vegetables to maintain a nice crunch and bright color.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a side of garlic bread for a delightful, complete meal.
Serve alongside a fresh mixed greens salad to balance flavors and add freshness.

Tips

Pre-cooking the quinoa the day before can save time when assembling the casserole.
Adjust the level of spice to your preference; omit red pepper flakes for a milder version.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: About 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 380 per serving
Protein: 18g per serving
Sodium: 540mg per serving

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components, assemble the casserole, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake. It’s perfect for meal prep!

What can I substitute for quinoa?

If you’re not a fan of quinoa, brown rice or couscous makes an excellent alternative. They provide a similar texture and absorb flavors beautifully.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for a delicious lunch reheat at work!

Conclusion

With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, the Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole is a wonderful choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Its colorful presentation and delightful flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. Try experimenting with different vegetables or adding proteins like chicken or chickpeas to suit your taste. This recipe not only gratifies your craving for comfort food but also enriches you with essential nutrients. We encourage you to leave a comment below about your experience or any personal twists you added to the recipe. Don’t forget to share this delightful casserole with friends who appreciate delicious and healthy meals!