Are you ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body? Look no further than our Healthy One Pot Mexican Quinoa Casserole! This vibrant dish brings together the wholesome goodness of quinoa, black beans, and colorful veggies, all simmered to perfection in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is not only easy to make but also bursting with bold Mexican flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this delightful casserole and discover how simple it is to create a nutritious meal that feels indulgent!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 avocado, for topping
- Cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a large one-pot skillet or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper into the skillet, stirring to coat the vegetables and release the spices' aromatics.
- Pour in the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until quinoa is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Once quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Fluff the quinoa mixture with a fork, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Serve hot, topped with fresh diced avocado and chopped cilantro for garnish.
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural bitter coating, ensuring a clean and nutty flavor in your dish.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take the time to sauté the onions and bell peppers until they are soft and translucent. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of your casserole.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin to suit your taste preferences. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
- Simmer Gently: After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently. This allows the quinoa to cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the toppings! Fresh avocado and chopped cilantro add a refreshing touch that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole stores well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
