Vegan Cheesy Beans and Grains

Indulge in a hearty and wholesome meal with this Vegan Cheesy Beans and Grains recipe—a flavorful fusion of plant-based protein, creamy textures, and vibrant spices. Perfectly fluffy quinoa serves as the base, paired with tender cannellini beans and a luscious vegan cheese sauce made from nutritional yeast, almond milk, and a hint of smoked paprika for that irresistible cheesy tang. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder is both nourishing and comforting, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or meal prep option. Garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy dairy-free comfort food without compromise.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa (or any preferred grain like brown rice or farro)
• 2 cups water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
• 1 cup cooked cannellini beans (or chickpeas, black beans, etc.)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 0.25 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon tapioca starch (or cornstarch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2

While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegan cheese sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the almond milk, nutritional yeast, tapioca starch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.

Step 3

Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Slowly pour in the whisked cheese sauce mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.

Step 4

Drain and rinse the cooked beans if using canned. Add them to the pot of cooked quinoa and stir to combine.

Step 5

Pour the vegan cheese sauce over the quinoa and bean mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6

Spoon the Vegan Cheesy Beans and Grains into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1203.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	657.8

Total Fat 21.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2559.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 93.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.6g	0%
Total Sugars 3.7g
Protein 29.3g	0%

Vitamin D 100.0IU	0%
Calcium 631.8mg	0%
Iron 10.7mg	0%
Potassium 1567.5mg	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: 28.1%

Protein: 17.1%

Carbs: 54.7%