Sicilian-Inspired Quinoa and Swiss Chard Bake
This Sicilian-Inspired Quinoa and Swiss Chard Bake is an elegant and nutritious dish that beautifully combines the earthy flavors of quinoa, the vibrant greens of Swiss chard, and the rich tang of sun-dried tomatoes. Quinoa, often referred to as the mother grain of the Incas, packs a protein punch while providing essential amino acids and vital nutrients like calcium and iron. This recipe not only celebrates the versatility of quinoa but also highlights the depth of flavor that comes from sun-dried tomatoes and the crunch of sunflower seeds. Topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for a wholesome meal that will satisfy both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a delightful addition to any table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
sun-dried tomato
1/3 cup (not oil-packed, soaked in boiling water until softened)
boiling water
1 cup (for soaking sun-dried tomatoes)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (divided)
red onion
1 medium (finely chopped)
garlic
2 cloves (minced)
Swiss chard
8 cups (shredded (approximately 1 pound))
salt
3/4 teaspoon (divided)
quinoa
2 cups (rinsed and drained)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
salted dry roasted sunflower seeds
1/2 cup (for crunch)
golden raisins
1/3 cup (for sweetness)
grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (for topping)
Instructions
1
Begin by soaking the sun-dried tomatoes in a small bowl with boiling water. Allow them to soften for about 20 minutes – this will enhance their flavor and texture. Once softened, drain and slice them thinly.
2
In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and minced garlic, sautéing for approximately 5 minutes until the onion is lightly browned and fragrant.
3
Add the shredded Swiss chard to the skillet, seasoning with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cook while stirring frequently for 5 to 7 minutes until the chard is tender and vibrant.
4
In a separate large nonstick skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed and drained quinoa, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes until it begins to toast and takes on a golden hue.
5
Next, add 4 cups of water, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and pepper to the toasted quinoa. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
6
Once both mixtures are cooked, transfer the quinoa to a large bowl. Fold in the sautéed Swiss chard mixture, sunflower seeds, golden raisins, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
7
Using a fork, gently toss the mixture to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve warm, or allow to cool slightly before serving at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sicilian-Inspired Quinoa and Swiss Chard Bake?
It is an elegant and nutritious dish that combines quinoa, Swiss chard, sun-dried tomatoes, sunflower seeds, and golden raisins.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is a wholesome meal designed to satisfy both vegetarians and meat-lovers.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a total of 12 ingredients.
What are the main nutritional benefits of quinoa in this dish?
Quinoa provides a protein punch, essential amino acids, and vital nutrients like calcium and iron.
How should the sun-dried tomatoes be prepared?
Use 1/3 cup of sun-dried tomatoes that are not oil-packed, soak them in boiling water for 20 minutes, then slice them thinly.
What type of onion is used?
One medium red onion, finely chopped, is used for the base.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
How much Swiss chard is used?
You need 8 cups of shredded Swiss chard, which is approximately 1 pound.
What is the total amount of quinoa needed?
The recipe uses 2 cups of quinoa, which should be rinsed and drained.
Why should you toast the quinoa?
Toasting the quinoa for about 5 minutes gives it a golden hue and enhances its flavor.
How much water is required to cook the quinoa?
You will need 4 cups of water to simmer the 2 cups of quinoa.
How long does it take to cook the Swiss chard?
The chard should be sautéed for 5 to 7 minutes until tender and vibrant.
What kind of seeds provide crunch in this recipe?
1/2 cup of salted dry roasted sunflower seeds are added for texture.
What ingredient is used for sweetness?
1/3 cup of golden raisins are included to provide a subtle sweetness.
What type of cheese is used for the topping?
1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese is used as a flavorful topping.
How much olive oil is needed in total?
A total of 2 tablespoons of olive oil is used, divided between the vegetable and quinoa pans.
How much salt and pepper should be added?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of salt (divided) and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the tags provided, this recipe is gluten-free.
What is the simmer time for the quinoa?
The quinoa should simmer for 12 to 15 minutes once the water is boiling.
Can this dish be served cold?
Yes, it can be served warm or at room temperature.
What is the first step in the preparation?
The first step is to soak the sun-dried tomatoes in 1 cup of boiling water for about 20 minutes.
How long do you sauté the onion and garlic?
They should be sautéed for approximately 5 minutes until the onion is lightly browned.
How should the final ingredients be combined?
The quinoa, chard, seeds, raisins, cheese, and tomatoes should be gently tossed together using a fork.
What is the historical nickname for quinoa mentioned in the description?
Quinoa is often referred to as the 'mother grain of the Incas'.
Does this recipe require a nonstick skillet?
Yes, the instructions recommend using a large nonstick skillet for both the vegetables and the quinoa.
Is this recipe considered high in protein?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as high protein due to the inclusion of quinoa.
What does the recipe mean by 'vibrant' chard?
It refers to cooking the Swiss chard just until it is tender while still retaining its bright green color.
Are the golden raisins soaked before adding?
No, the golden raisins are folded into the final mixture along with the other dry ingredients.
What are some of the health-related tags for this recipe?
The tags include healthy, superfood, nutritious, and high protein.
How much sun-dried tomato soaking water is used?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of boiling water specifically for soaking the tomatoes.