QUINOA & BUTTERNUT SQUASH GRATIN

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Quinoa & Butternut Squash Gratin image

This is a delicious, savory vegetarian recipe with butternut squash and cheese. The original recipe called for Gruyere but I used sharp cheddar instead. I think both would work quite well. This was my first time using quinoa in a recipe, and I'm really hooked. The little quinoa spirals are filled with protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, making it a valuable addition to a vegetarian diet.

Provided by Kozmic Blues

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 1h

Yield 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 1/2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and diced
1 cup quinoa (organic)
2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons shallots
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese or 1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 400.
  • Spray a 2-quart dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Peel and cube the butternut squash, then put in a microwave safe bowl.
  • Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes until squash is soft and tender.
  • Wash the quinoa in a fine sieve thoroughly (about 5 minutes) until water runs clear. This is very important, as quinoa has a bitter protective coating that can linger even after processing.
  • Transfer squash and quinoa to a large pot. Add water and salt to pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and the quinoa blooms into little spirals.
  • Remove from heat and let rest.
  • Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat in a small frying pan.
  • Add shallots and cook 3 minutes.
  • Add garlic and cook a minute or two longer, being careful not to let garlic burn.
  • Pour over quinoa and squash mixture, mixing thoroughly.
  • Add eggs, 3/4 cup of the cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Transfer to prepared baking dish.
  • Sprinkle remaining cheese and bread crumbs over gratin.
  • Drizzle remaining 1 tablespoons of olive oil on top and bake for 35-45 minutes or until top is golden brown.

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