Description
A flavorful and hearty Mexican Quinoa Bake combining protein-packed quinoa, black beans, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato salsa (any type)
- 1 15oz can black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup sweet corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 handful fresh cilantro
Optional Toppings
- Avocado
- Sour cream
- Additional salsa
- Hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the quinoa casserole.
- Cook Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly, then place it in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until all the water is absorbed and quinoa is tender.
- Sauté Vegetables: While quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped green bell pepper and yellow onion, cooking for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently until they soften.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooked quinoa to a large bowl. Stir in tomato salsa, rinsed black beans, sweet corn, sautéed bell pepper and onion, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and fresh cilantro until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the quinoa mixture into a medium-sized casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes to lightly brown the cheese.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Remove from oven and top with your choice of avocado slices, sour cream, additional salsa, hot sauce, or other preferred toppings before serving.
Notes
- Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its natural coating, which can have a bitter taste.
- If using frozen corn, thaw it before adding to the mix.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to make the dish more or less spicy according to your taste.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and reheated for a convenient meal.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 32 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Mexican, Quinoa Bake, Vegetarian, Healthy, Casserole, One Dish Meal
