Are you on the lookout for a delectable vegetarian dish that is also beneficial to your health? We have just the thing for you! Expect to be entranced by our Garlic and Herb Baked Southwestern Quinoa Casserole! This savory dish is sure to impress your palette, whether it’s on a casual weekday or as a special treat for weekend get-togethers.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- To prepare the quinoa, take a medium-sized saucepan and strain it through a fine-mesh strainer. Then add two cups of water to the pot and bring everything to a boil before reducing heat. Let simmer for fifteen minutes or until all of the liquid has been absorbed and your quinoa is tenderly cooked.
- As the quinoa simmers, warm up a large skillet to medium-high heat and add some olive oil. Throw in the chopped onion and bell peppers before they have time to cool down and cook for around 5 minutes or until softened.
- To the skillet, add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano and cayenne pepper. Saute these ingredients until they are aromatic – approximately one minute should do it!
- Stir in the black beans, corn, and cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top it off with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake your dish in the oven for around 20-25 minutes, or until all of the cheese is fully melted and you hear it bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This Garlic and Herb Baked Southwestern Quinoa Casserole is the perfect meal for up to 6 people. It tastes delicious on its own, but add a side of avocado, salsa or sour cream for an extra flavorful punch! Experience this delightful dish today and savor every bite!