IMHO, there is nothing better than a warm bowl of pasta or quinoa on a cold winter’s night. And now that the winter weather in Cincinnati/ NKY has finally arrived, I wanted to share my favorite winter comfort dish with you so we’re all prepared.
I like to think of this as {Adult} Mac n’ Cheese. In reality, a better title may be “Cheesy Quinoa with Tomatoes and Mushrooms,” because a child would feel totally ripped off if you said Mac n’ Cheese was for dinner and this appeared in front of them. However, it has that cheesy goodness of mac n’ cheese without any butter or breadcrumbs and is literally 75% less work. Seriously, if you don’t measure anything but the quinoa, it still comes out great every single time. #humblebrag
The dish can stand on its own, so is perfect if you’re into “Meatless Monday,” but is also great topped with shrimp, salmon, or grilled chicken. I haven’t tried it, but bacon would probably be great too. Maybe not as nutritious, but definitely good. You can also vary up the vegetables – sautéed onions and peppers are awesome in it. Lastly, if you’re not a quinoa person, it can be made with pasta or rice. Added bonus: it saves wonderfully.
Cheesy Quinoa with Tomatoes and Mushrooms
a.k.a. {Adult} Mac n’ Cheese
Ingredients
Quinoa (2 dry cups)
Tomatoes
Mushrooms
1 cup cream
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Garlic Powder to taste
Pepper to taste
Olive oil (for sautéing veggies)
Parsley flakes (optional, but add a splash of color)
Directions
1. Cook Quinoa according to package directions.
2. Heat olive oil in pan to medium heat and then add mushrooms, pepper, and garlic.
3. Sautee mushrooms until tender (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the tomatoes and stir an additional minute.
5. Dump Quinoa and veggies into a large serving bowl.
6. Add cream and cheese and stir thoroughly.
7. Garnish with parsley flakes. (optional)
8. Enjoy!
What are your favorite winter comfort foods?
Please share in the comments below and don’t forget to print your recipe card HERE!
