27 May 2025
Cook time 70 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup quinoa
1 lb broccoli
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 dash black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper (spice)
2 cups cheddar cheese
1 cup almond milk
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove
1 slice whole-wheat bread
This Broccoli, Cheddar & Quinoa Gratin is a delicious and nutritious dish that beautifully combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, the hearty texture of quinoa, and the health benefits of fresh broccoli. It's a perfect meal for any occasion, easy to prepare, and sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Instructions:
1. Cook Quinoa:
1.1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water.
1.2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil.
1.3. Add the rinsed quinoa to the boiling broth.
1.4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the broth is absorbed.
1.5. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare Broccoli:
2.1. While quinoa is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2.2. Wash and cut 1 lb of broccoli into small florets.
2.3. Steam the broccoli until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess water and set aside.
3. Combine Ingredients:
3.1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and steamed broccoli.
3.2. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of almond milk.
3.3. Season with 2 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tsp of salt, 1 dash of black pepper, and 1/4 tsp of red pepper (spice). Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
4. Prepare Topping:
4.1. In a small skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
4.2. Add 1 minced garlic clove and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4.3. Add the finely crumbled whole-wheat bread to the skillet, stirring to coat the crumbs in the garlic oil. Cook until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.
5. Assemble the Gratin:
5.1. Transfer the quinoa and broccoli mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5.2. Sprinkle the garlic-infused breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
6.1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the gratin is bubbling around the edges.
7. Serve:
7.1. Allow the gratin to cool for a few minutes before serving.
7.2. Enjoy your delicious broccoli, cheddar, and quinoa gratin as a nutritious main dish or a hearty side.
Tips:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural bitterness.
- Steam the broccoli lightly before mixing it with other ingredients to maintain its crunch and vibrant green color.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for a smoother and creamier texture in your gratin.
- Feel free to substitute almond milk with any other milk of your choice if you prefer.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the cheesy flavor of the dish.
- For a golden and crispy topping, use homemade whole-wheat bread crumbs mixed with a bit of olive oil.
- Let the gratin rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set and for the flavors to meld together.
This Broccoli, Cheddar & Quinoa Gratin is not just a meal, it's a comfort food that brings warmth and joy to the table. The combination of creamy cheddar, wholesome quinoa, and nutritious broccoli makes for a satisfying and healthy dish. Enjoy this gratin hot out of the oven, and savor the delightful blend of flavors in each bite.