Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as comforting as it is delicious? The Creamy Caprese Quinoa Bake is a culinary masterpiece that combines the fresh flavors of Italy with the wholesome goodness of quinoa. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering. Imagine a bubbling casserole filled with tender quinoa, juicy cherry tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for diving into this delightful dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the quinoa bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and cube 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Chop 1/4 cup of fresh basil and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the quinoa mixture into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish. Spread the mixture evenly across the dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
- Serve the creamy Caprese quinoa bake warm, and enjoy this delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse your quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste. A quick rinse under cold water will do the trick!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: If you're a cheese enthusiast, consider mixing in different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist on the classic Caprese flavors.
- Add Some Spice: For those who enjoy a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or black pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Let It Rest: Allow the bake to sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.
- Garnish with Freshness: Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic reduction before serving. It adds a lovely touch and enhances the dish’s presentation.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your Creamy Caprese Quinoa Bake alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
