Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious? Say hello to the Vegetable Quinoa Flan! This American-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome treat that combines the goodness of quinoa with vibrant vegetables and cheesy goodness. Perfect for a family meal or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, this flan is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. With just 50 minutes of your time, you can whip up a stunning centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1/2 cup cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your flan cooks evenly and properly.
- Gather all your ingredients: 1 cup of cooked quinoa, 2 eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of mixed vegetables (you can use a frozen mix of carrots, peas, and corn), 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well), and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, eggs, and milk. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the bowl. If using frozen vegetables, make sure they are thawed and drained of excess water. Stir until the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Fold in the shredded cheese, and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently to avoid breaking up the vegetables too much.
- Grease a flan or pie dish with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking. Pour the quinoa mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the flan dish in a larger baking pan. Fill the outer pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish. This water bath will help cook the flan gently and evenly.
- Carefully transfer the baking pan to the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the flan is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once cooked, remove the flan from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully lift it out of the water bath.
- Let the flan cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cook Your Quinoa Ahead of Time: To save time, prepare your quinoa in advance. You can cook a larger batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week, making it easy to whip up this flan whenever you crave it.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can add a delightful twist to your flan.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the taste of your flan. Sprinkle them on top before serving for an aromatic touch.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your flan. It’s done when the edges are firm and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve with a Side Salad: Pair your Vegetable Quinoa Flan with a light salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
- Leftover Magic: This flan makes for fantastic leftovers! Enjoy it cold or reheated for a quick lunch or dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
