As the autumn leaves began to blanket the ground, I found myself craving the warm embrace of comfort food. One chilly evening, while rummaging through my pantry, I discovered a bag of quinoa that had been waiting patiently for its moment to shine. Inspired by the earthy tones of the season and the desire for a nutritious meal, I crafted this delightful quinoa and black bean casserole. It became a staple in my home, a dish that not only warmed bellies but also sparked joy and laughter around the dinner table.
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover, letting it simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed.
While the quinoa cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced red onion and minced garlic until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add in the diced red bell pepper, corn, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.
Stir in the black beans, cooked quinoa, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Transfer this colorful mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible, filling your kitchen with warmth and comfort.
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. This casserole not only captures the essence of fall but also serves as a hearty meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or enjoy it on its own; either way, it’s bound to bring smiles to your table!