Day 3: Quinoa Mac & Cheese

This is a healthier alternative to a lot of mac & cheese recipes. This could be used as a side or as a main course served with salad or vegetables.  Original recipe posting: http://monimeals.com/meals/quinoa-mac-n-cheese/

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups of quinoa, rinsed and drained
1 tsp olive oil
1/4 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup diced red pepper
Salt
Seasoning Salt
2 cloves of garlic, minced
3 cups of water (or stock)
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 1/2 cups of grated cheddar cheese (using half Pepper Jack would kick up the flavor)
Bread crumbs
Grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Toppings: crushed red pepper, salsa, or hot sauce

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Step 1:

Heat the oil in a medium sauce pan over medium heat. Add the peppers and tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until tender. Stir in the quinoa and garlic. Cook uncovered for 3-4 minutes until grains start to turn opaque.

Step 2:

Add the water, salt and seasoning salt to the pan. Cover and reduce heat to medium low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat let stand for 5 minutes.

Step 3:

Coat a 13x9 baking dish with cooking spray. Whisk the eggs and milk together in a medium bowl. Mix in the quinoa and cheddar cheese and let the cheeses melt a little.

Step 4:

Add the mixture to the baking dish. Top with the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 45 minutes until browned.

 

Step 5:

Add any toppings you'd like and enjoy!