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Creamy Cheesy Quinoa Bowls Recipe

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3.8 from 6 reviews

A comforting and nutritious Creamy Cheesy Quinoa Bowl that combines fluffy quinoa with kale, nutritional yeast or Parmesan, and a touch of garlic and onion powders for savory flavor. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and can be customized with your choice of milk and optional protein for a wholesome, creamy dish.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Quinoa Base

  • 1 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup raw quinoa
  • 3 tbsp nutritional yeast (or Parmesan)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • optional 2 tsp butter or vegan butter (for added richness)

Vegetables

  • 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped

Liquids & Extras

  • 1/2 cup milk of choice or unsweetened creamer
  • optional protein of choice (tofu, beans, etc.)

Instructions

  1. Boil Quinoa Base: In a medium saucepan, bring the water, raw quinoa, nutritional yeast or Parmesan, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional butter to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Simmer Until Fluffy: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
  3. Add Kale and Milk: Stir in the chopped kale (or spinach) and your choice of milk or unsweetened creamer. Return the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to allow the kale to wilt.
  4. Adjust Thickness and Texture: Continue cooking and stirring until the quinoa reaches your desired creamy texture and the kale is fully wilted.
  5. Add Protein (Optional): If adding protein like tofu or beans, either cook the protein separately first or stir it into the quinoa mixture depending on the type of protein and its cooking requirements.
  6. Serve Warm: Once everything is combined and heated through, serve the creamy cheesy quinoa bowl hot, optionally garnished with extra nutritional yeast or Parmesan.

Notes

  • You can substitute kale with spinach for a milder green.
  • For a vegan version, use nutritional yeast and plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
  • The dish can be made in an Instant Pot by combining the first five ingredients and cooking on the ‘RICE’ setting for 12 minutes at low pressure, then quick releasing and adding the remaining ingredients afterwards.
  • Adding protein enhances the meal’s nutritional value and can be customized based on preference.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian