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Vegetable Quinoa Bake

This Vegetable Quinoa Bake combines toasted quinoa with roasted vegetables and melted cheese for a hearty, wholesome dish. The baking process creates a golden, bubbly top with tender, caramelized vegetables embedded in fluffy quinoa, resulting in a comforting, visually appealing casserole. It’s versatile, easily adaptable, and perfect for make-ahead meals or quick weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed and toasted
  • 2 cups water for cooking quinoa
  • 1 large zucchini chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 bell pepper bell pepper chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheese mozzarella or cheddar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting and sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs basil and parsley
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked or sweet
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 9x9 inch baking dish
  • Large Skillet
  • Pot
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water, then toast it in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  2. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a pot, add the toasted quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  3. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Chop the zucchini, bell pepper, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Toss them with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  4. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, filling your kitchen with a sweet, smoky aroma.
  5. While the vegetables roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped zucchini and bell pepper for 3-5 minutes until slightly browned and fragrant.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffy cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, chopped herbs, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix gently to evenly distribute all ingredients.
  7. Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and the cheese has melted into a gooey crust.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the dish to firm up slightly.
  10. Slice into portions and serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired. Enjoy the crispy edges and tender, cheesy center!