Looking for an easy and delicious vegan recipe? This Mexican Quinoa Bake is a satisfying and hearty dish that combines quinoa, black beans, and a variety of veggies for a flavor-packed meal! Perfect for a one-pan dinner, this vegan casserole is not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato salsa (use your favorite vegan salsa)
- 1 15oz can black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup sweet corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: Avocado, vegan sour cream, extra salsa, hot sauce, etc.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly and place it in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
- While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped bell pepper and onion for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the quinoa is ready, transfer it to a large bowl. Stir in the salsa, black beans, sweet corn, sautéed peppers and onions, garlic powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Pour the quinoa mixture into a medium-sized casserole dish. Optionally, sprinkle with vegan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt.
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, letting the dish crisp up slightly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Add your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor!
Substitution Ideas
- For extra spice: Add a diced jalapeño to the peppers and onions while sautéing.
- For a milder flavor: Skip the cayenne pepper and use a mild salsa.
- No black beans? Pinto beans make a great substitute.
Topping Suggestions
The best part about this Mexican Quinoa Bake is the ability to customize it with your favorite toppings! Try these vegan-friendly options:
- Fresh diced avocado or a scoop of guacamole
- Hot sauce for an added kick
- Vegan sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt
- Additional salsa or homemade pico de gallo
- A sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor
- Thinly sliced fresh jalapenos for extra heat
This Mexican Quinoa Bake is not only one of the most satisfying vegan recipe ideas, but it’s also super flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Enjoy this hearty, healthy, and vibrant dish at your next family dinner or meal prep session!