California Casserole

Experience the vibrant flavors of the West Coast with this California Casserole, a wholesome and colorful dish bursting with fresh ingredients like quinoa, black beans, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Layered with melted cheddar cheese and topped with a creamy avocado-cilantro topping, this casserole is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The combination of protein-packed quinoa and beans makes it a hearty vegetarian option, while the squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a zesty twist. Ready in under an hour and perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this healthy and satisfying recipe brings a taste of California sunshine to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 can (15 oz) cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 large avocado, diced
• 1 large lime, juiced
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened.

Step 4

Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Continue to sauté for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5

Stir in the cherry tomatoes and black beans, cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 6

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the sautéed vegetables and black beans. Mix well.

Step 7

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9

While the casserole bakes, prepare the avocado topping. In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.

Step 10

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.

Step 11

Top the casserole with the avocado mixture right before serving.

Step 12

Serve warm and enjoy this fresh, California-inspired casserole!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2057.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2112.8

Total Fat 108.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 33.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 121.1mg	0%
Sodium 4334.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 211.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 46.3g	0%
Total Sugars 19.2g
Protein 87.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1047.2mg	0%
Iron 15.0mg	0%
Potassium 3441.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.0%

Protein: 16.0%

Carbs: 39.0%