Delicious Quinoa and Cheese Bake

This delightful quinoa and cheese bake is a wholesome and satisfying dish, perfect for any meal of the day. It's packed with nutritious ingredients like quinoa, leeks, and spinach, combined with the rich flavors of various cheeses such as feta, soft cheese, and parmesan. This bake offers a creamy texture and cheesy goodness in every bite, making it a favorite for both gourmet and home chefs. The aroma of fresh thyme and spices elevates the dish, making it aromatic and irresistible. It's a fantastic option for vegetarians and can be easily adapted for different dietary needs. Preparing this dish is a culinary adventure that indulges your senses with its vibrant colors and enticing scents. This quinoa bake is not only delicious but also nourishing, providing a great source of protein and vitamins. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or a simple dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone. You can serve it with a side salad or freshly baked bread for a complete and hearty meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup of whole-grain quinoa
• 2 medium leeks, chopped
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup soft cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon low-fat milk
• Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
• 4 crumbled bread croutons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 300 g spinach
• 1.5 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon chopped thyme
• A pinch of ground pepper

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes (Prep time: 15 minutes, Cook time: 45 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when the dish is ready to be baked.

2. In a large pot, combine the quinoa with the vegetable broth. Cover with a lid and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the quinoa for about 30 minutes or until the broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, chop the leeks, discarding the leaves, and mince the garlic. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the leeks and garlic for 2 minutes.

4. Add the spinach to the pan and cook for an additional 3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in the thyme, pepper, and a pinch of salt. Toss the mixture with the cooked quinoa using a fork to fluff it up.

5. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs and feta cheese until well combined.

6. Place the soft cheese and milk in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 seconds until softened. Mix in some grated parmesan and refrigerate this cheese mixture for later use.

7. Combine the spinach, leek, and quinoa mixture in the bowl with the eggs and feta. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

8. Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil and transfer the quinoa mixture into the dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.

9. Evenly spread the chilled cheese mixture over the quinoa in the baking dish. Sprinkle the top with crumbled bread croutons and drizzle lightly with olive oil.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

11. Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

12. Enjoy your meal!

Tips

• For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan cheese.
• If you desire a spicier kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
• Ensure that you rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.

Nutritions

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 18g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 50g

Variations

• Add roasted red bell peppers for a pop of color and additional flavor.
• Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a different taste.
• Include your favorite herbs like basil or oregano for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal.
• Complement with a glass of white wine to enhance the cheesy flavors.

Best Places

1. Quinoa Bar - A cozy cafe known for its healthy grain bowls and fresh ingredients. Location: 12 Market St, San Francisco, USA.

2. Green Gourmet - Offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, featuring organic ingredients. Location: 45 High St, London, UK.

3. Leek & Cheese Haven - A trendy bistro specializing in cheese-based dishes. Location: 130 Rue de Paris, Paris, France.

4. The Healthy Fork - Known for its nutrient-packed meals and vibrant smoothies. Location: 67 Orchard Rd, Singapore.

5. Feta Fiesta - A small restaurant offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Location: 22 Olive St, Sydney, Australia.

6. Vegan Vibes - A plant-based eatery famous for its creative and delicious vegan options. Location: 120 Main St, Toronto, Canada.

7. Thyme & Taste - Offers a unique dining experience with a focus on herbs and fresh flavors. Location: 80 King St, Melbourne, Australia.

8. Spinach & Co. - Known for its locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Location: 25 Green Lane, Dublin, Ireland.

9. Simply Spinach - A charming cafe with a wide selection of spinach-based dishes. Location: 44 River Rd, New York City, USA.

10. Cheesy Delights - Celebrated for its extensive cheese collection and delightful entrees. Location: 5 Cheese St, Amsterdam, Netherlands.