Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Look no further than this Grains and Greens Casserole! Bursting with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, kale, and chickpeas, this casserole is a vibrant celebration of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make, taking just under an hour from start to finish. Whether you're a busy parent, a health-conscious foodie, or just someone looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Dive in and discover how to create this comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed.
- While quinoa is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté diced onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Chop kale into bite-sized pieces, removing any tough stems.
- Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to wilt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed onions and kale, cooked chickpeas, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to become slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa! This step removes the natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter. A quick rinse under cold water will ensure a nutty, pleasant flavor.
- Customize Your Greens: While kale adds great texture and nutrition, feel free to substitute with other greens like spinach or Swiss chard for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the greens you choose.
- Add Extra Flavor: For a flavor boost, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika, or even a splash of lemon juice before baking. These small additions can elevate the dish even further.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! Assemble it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you.
- Garnish for Presentation: Before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. It not only looks great but adds an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
