Crispy Quinoa Bake

I have recently added a new grain to my kitchen... quinoa! I have heard more and more recipes containing quinoa and how "good it was for you", that I did my own little research before I attempted my first few recipes. And boy was I excited once I learned all the many benefits that quinoa has to offer our bodies :)
In summary I've learned these significant facts about the grain:
~Quinoa is gluten free and very rich with nutrients
~Quinoa contains much more protein and "good" fat compared to any other grain such as rice, noodles, wheat, etc.
~Quinoa has natural anti-inflammatory properties and rich in antioxidants
~Quinoa is also high in fiber, therefore easily digestible
~Quinoa can be sold pre-packaged or in bulk and is EASY to prepare!

So why not add this key grain to our diets?! YES PLEASE! My dear sister-in-law Sara was actually one of the first to introduce me to this phenom. And here is a recipe she shared with me, that was absolutely delicious and a must try.

CRISPY QUINOA BAKE

 Ingredients:

1 c. quinoa

1 T + 2 t olive oil

2 c chicken stock (see previous post on how to make your own)

1 c. onion, diced

1/2 green pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 c. zucchini, cubed (2 small)

1 15oz can black beans, rinsed

1 4oz can diced green chiles (optional)

1 28oz can diced tomatoes

1 c. frozen corn

1/2 t cumin

1 t oregano

1 t chili powder

1/2 lime, juice

2c. sharp cheddar cheese

Directions:

-preheat oven 375 degrees

-grease 9 x 13 baking dish

-rinse quinoa with cool water for 2 minutes

-in a medium saucepan, heat 2 t of olive oil on medium-high heat

-add quinoa and cook, stirring for 1 min, it should cry out and start to pop

-add chicken stock, stir and bring to a boil... then turn the heat to low, cooking covered for 15 minutes

-remove and let stand covered for another 5 mins

~meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat 1 T of olive oil over medium heat.

-add onions, peppers, and cook. Stir until soft (approx 7 mins)

-add garlic and zucchini and cook another 3 mins

~Fluff the quinoa with a fork, and place in a large bowl

-add onion mix, beans, chiles, tomatoes, corn, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and lime juice and mix thoroughly

-transfer to a baking dish and bake for 30 mins.

-top with cheese and bake an additional 10 mins, until cheese is melted. 

ENJOY!

:) comments/modifcations/suggestions always appreciated!