It's Beginning to Taste a Lot Like Quinoa

The little trendsetter that it is, quinoa is not going anywhere anytime soon. Although a somewhat controversial food, quinoa is everywhere. Check out some fun facts about the protein, health-packed goodness: 10 Things You Didn't Know About Quinoa. It is a fascinating food all on its own, but even better when crafted into full-flavored, wholesome fare.

Looking for a new take on side dishes for holiday dinners and parties? I have a winner! This sidekick will please even the Grinchiest of quinoa nay-sayers. It is quite easy to whip up, and results in a cheesy, delicious goodness that will combine nicely with any meal. Paired with a beautiful Christmas turkey or  even a BBQ feast, it is extremely versatile. Makes for a lovely vegetarian plate, as well as a protein-packed infusion if you want to add some chicken or tuna to the mix. It is also a delectable entree to create on Sundays and parcel out for appetizing lunches throughout the week.
Buon Appetito!
~ Sarah 

Quinoa Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients

One 10 oz can condensed Cream of Broccoli soup

1/3 cup reduced fat mayonnaise

2 tablespoons milk

1 1/4 cups shredded cheese {cheddar, colby-jack, etc}

1/2 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Dash freshly grated nutmeg

1 1/2 cups COOKED quinoa *{see directions below}

2 cups cooked broccoli **{see note below}

Freshly shaved parmesan cheese

Bread crumbs {'Progresso Garlic & Herb' is a delicious choice}

Garnish with some fresh parsley after cooking for a beautiful finishing touch

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and coat a shallow casserole dish with olive oil.

In a large bowl combine the soup, mayonnaise, milk, shredded cheese, sugar, black pepper and nutmeg until well mixed. Stir in the cooked quinoa and broccoli.
Spoon mixture into prepared casserole dish.  

Sprinkle on a couple tablespoons of parmesan and bread crumbs to taste. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and bubbly on the edges.  

Makes about 8 generous 1/2 cup servings. Easily doubled if you are hosting a multitude of peeps. :)

*To Prepare Quinoa:

3/4 cup quinoa

1 1/2 cups water

1/4 teaspoon salt

Rinse quinoa in a fine sieve until water runs clear.  In a small saucepan combine the quinoa, water, and salt.  Bring to a boil over high heat.  Reduce heat to low and cover.  Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until fluffy and the white ring/tail is visible.  Fluff with a fork.

**If you are looking to save time and/or have a little less tedious prep, you can use Green Giant's Broccoli Steamers. However, make sure you are getting the 'Broccoli Florets' and not the "Broccoli Cuts', otherwise you will end up with a bag of mostly stems. Steam the broccoli as directed on package, and then add to the mix with the cooked quinoa as designated by the recipe.