Caprese Quinoa Bake is the perfect marriage of vibrant, fresh ingredients and comforting textures. This dish promises to tantalize your taste buds while keeping your meal light and nutritious. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just venturing into the world of healthy eating, this blend of rustic Italian flavors with healthy, wholesome ingredients will quickly become a staple at your dinner table.
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Caprese Quinoa Bake
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Caprese Quinoa Bake
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups cooked white quinoa
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes sliced in half
- ½ cup red onions diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella shredded
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls sliced in half
- 1 cup canned tomatoes pureed
- fresh basil
- balsamic glaze
- olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200C/400F.
- Place cast iron skillet on a medium heat and pour in a couple tablespoons of olive oil. Saute onions in olive oil for 5 minutes. Add garlic and tomatoes, cook for 2-3 minutes more.
- Combine tomato sauce with cooked quinoa and mix well. Adjust seasoning to your liking.
- Transfer quinoa into a casserole dish and top with low moisture mozzarella, fresh mozzarella and fresh tomatoes.
- Bake for 20 minutes, serve topped with basil leaves and balsamic glaze.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups cooked white quinoa
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- ½ cup red onions, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella, shredded
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced in half
- 1 cup canned tomatoes, pureed
- fresh basil
- balsamic glaze
- olive oil
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 200C/400F.
Place cast iron skillet on a medium heat and pour in a couple tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté onions in olive oil for 5 minutes. Add garlic and tomatoes, cook for 2-3 minutes more.
Combine tomato sauce with cooked quinoa and mix well. Adjust seasoning to your liking.
Transfer quinoa into a casserole dish and top with low moisture mozzarella, fresh mozzarella and fresh tomatoes.
Bake for 20 minutes, serve topped with basil leaves and balsamic glaze.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Salad Pairings
Pairing is essential for creating a balanced meal. The Caprese Quinoa Bake, featuring fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and hearty quinoa, goes perfectly with a crisp green salad. A simple arugula salad tossed with a light lemon vinaigrette can beautifully complement the rich flavors of the bake.
Bread Options
Adding some crusty whole-grain bread to your meal is an excellent choice. It not only provides texture but also allows you to soak up any delicious tomato sauce that may remain on your plate.
Beverage Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider a refreshing beverage. Sparkling water with a splash of lime or a light Italian white wine will perfectly pair with the vibrant flavors of the Caprese Quinoa Bake.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Drizzle for Depth
To elevate the flavors of your Caprese Quinoa Bake, drizzle a splash of extra virgin olive oil over the top of the casserole before baking. This simple addition not only enhances the dish's taste but also lends a lovely golden finish to the melty cheese.
Spice It Up
If you're in the mood for some heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the bake prior to cooking. This will provide a delightful kick that balances the dish's richness without overwhelming the freshness of the ingredients.
Freshness Matters
For the best results, always choose the freshest ingredients available. Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes bursting with flavor and high-quality mozzarella that melts beautifully, ensuring your Caprese Quinoa Bake is nothing short of spectacular.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Another Type of Quinoa?
Absolutely! While white quinoa is recommended for this recipe because of its mild flavor and fluffy texture, you can certainly use red or black quinoa. Keep in mind that they have a slightly nuttier taste and firmer texture, which can add an interesting twist to your dish.
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a vegan diet. Substitute the mozzarella with your favorite plant-based cheese. There are several excellent vegan mozzarella options available that melt beautifully and offer similar taste and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, the Caprese Quinoa Bake is ideal for make-ahead meals! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and pop it in the oven—just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I Freeze This Bake?
Definitely! This dish can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, make sure to cool them completely, then store in airtight containers for up to three months. Reheat from frozen at 350F until warmed through.
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to get creative with your Caprese Quinoa Bake! Consider adding sautéed spinach for an extra boost of greens, or mix in some grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added depth. You could even incorporate protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. The possibilities are endless!
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you loved this Caprese Quinoa Bake, you’re in for a treat! I have an array of cheesy casserole recipes that are both healthy and delicious. Check out some of my family favorites:
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