Easy Cheesy Quinoa and Spinach Bake

In today's fast-paced world, finding nutritious and delicious meals can be a challenge. Enter the Cheesy Quinoa Spinach Delight—a wholesome dish that combines the goodness of quinoa and fresh spinach with the comforting flavors of cheese. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or meal prep. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of the key ingredients, provide a detailed step-by-step guide to creating this delightful dish, and offer some insights into how you can customize it to suit your taste.

Discover the Cheesy Quinoa Spinach Delight, a nutritious, hassle-free dish perfect for any meal. This recipe blends protein-rich quinoa with fresh spinach and a medley of cheeses to create a reassuringly creamy and satisfying dish. With easy-to-follow steps and the option to customize for dietary preferences, it’s ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Dive into the flavors, explore variations, and enjoy a dish that nourishes both body and soul.

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Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup cottage cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 tsp dried basil (or a handful of fresh basil, chopped)

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1 egg, lightly beaten

Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the broth is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent (approximately 3-4 minutes). If using, add the red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Mix the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted (if using fresh). If you’re using frozen spinach, ensure it is thoroughly heated through and any remaining water is evaporated.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed spinach and onion mixture, mozzarella, Parmesan, cottage cheese, dried basil, oregano, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until fully combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish (or similar size) with olive oil. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm as a delicious side dish or main course. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6