Broccoli, Quinoa & Cheese Casserole

broc+cass.jpg

There is something truly irresistible about a broccoli casserole and this one has all the elements of the casseroles you’ve loved since childhood, made more “adult” with the added protein & textural boost of quinoa. Perfect paired with a glass of crisp white wine!

Serves: 4 Cooking time: approx. 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth 

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

  • 1 pound Pinwheel Broccoli Florets (frozen)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • ¾ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, if possible)

  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

  • 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup low-fat milk 

  • 1 ½ teaspoons olive oil

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

    Topping (omit for gluten-free version):

  • 1 cup Ritz or other crackers coarsely crushed

  • ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese

  • 2 tablespoons butter melted




Instructions

- Preheat oven/toaster oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup. Toss frozen broccoli florets with the olive oil, until lightly coated on all sides. Sprinkle with salt and arrange in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and starting to caramelize on the edges.

- While the broccoli is roasting, cook the quinoa: Bring the broth to boil in a medium-sized pot. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes or until all of the liquid is absorbed. Add the salt, pepper and red pepper flakes and stir to combine, then add in the grated cheese. Pour in the milk and stir until the cheese and milk are evenly incorporated in the quinoa. Cover and set aside.

- Topping: In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the crushed cracker pieces and mix gently until evenly coated with the butter.

 -Pour the cheesy quinoa into a 9-inch square baking dish and stir in the broccoli until it is evenly mixed in with the quinoa. Sprinkle the surface of the casserole with the 1/4 cup cheese reserved for the topping, then spread the crushed crackers on top evenly. Bake, uncovered, for 25 minutes, until the top is golden. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

recipesAnjali GuptaturkeyComment