Cheesy quinoa with green beans is a simple meal that’s satisfying and filling. Plus it’s gluten free and dairy free, too!
This is one of those recipes that I wonder about…is it too easy? Too simple to post?
But then I decided, no, this cheesy quinoa with green beans is really too good not to share. So I’m sharing it.
We eat a lot of quinoa over here (as you already know). I love it in salads, in chili, and even for breakfast. And sometimes I add non-dairy cheese and milk and eat it as a healthier version of macaroni and cheese. If I add vegetables as well, it’s even better. Then it becomes a filling lunch or a satisfying side dish for dinner.
It’s funny to me how quinoa went from being so uncommon to becoming a pretty standard item in people’s pantries. I remember when I first started eating quinoa (college, I think) and I thought it was pronounced kwin-oh-ah. Ah, memories. :)
This cheesy quinoa is quick to assemble, delicious, and is very kid friendly as well. It’s the perfect side dish for a busy night. If you aren’t dairy free, just go ahead and use regular cheddar cheese and dairy milk.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.
Cheesy Quinoa with Green Beans.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Place the quinoa, chopped onion, and two cups of water in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the little ring separates from the quinoa. Fluff with a fork.
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Add the olive oil, Daiya cheese, and coconut milk to the pot. Cook over medium low heat until the cheese is melted.
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If you are using frozen green beans, put them in a colander and run them under water until they thaw out somewhat. Drain and add to the quinoa. Stir and continue to cook until everything is heated through.
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Add salt and pepper and serve immediately.
Follow along:
Tanya
This is truly delicious and I will keep this in my recipe box! What an amazing substitute for mac ‘n’ cheese or grits during a meal. Sincerely, very good. I added 1 tsp of Massel beef bullion & seasoning powder (vegan) to the quinoa, a blend of Daiya cheddar shreds and provolone slices and 3/4 cup almond milk instead of coconut as this is what I had on hand and it still worked out beautifully. For my next attempt I will add cooked green beans (or broccoli florets) at the end rather than fresh as I like less crunch.
Thanks so much for this!
Darryl
Cheesy quinoa green bean deliciousness!
Sarah @Whole and Heavenly Oven
I’ve never heard of cheesy quinoa before, but this seriously looks SO amazing, Kelly! Love that you snuck some greens in there too to keep this on the healthy side of things!
Jessica Levinson (@jlevinsonrd)
I’m so glad you posted this! I have made quinoa in many ways and I’ve made a lot of mac and cheese variations, but never thought to make a quinoa mac and cheese! Looks amazing!
Emily @ Zen & Spice
This looks like cheesy & kid friendly goodness!
Kelly
Thank you!
Natalie @ Tastes Lovely
I love simple recipes like this! This is definitely something I would make for dinner. Love love love!
Kelly
Thanks, Natalie!
whiskandshout
Love that this is vegan! Pinning and cannot wait to try :)
Kelly
Thank you so much!
Jenny Shea Rawn
What a creative use of quinoa! The only cheese or cheese sub I’ve used in quinoa is parm and feta. Definitely going to try this with a good cheddar. Love how it looks like mac n cheese. Pinning for later!
Kelly
Let me know if you like it!
Julia
Heck yeah, girl! I say you share these types of recipes all day long! I love a good simple recipe that becomes a staple in my house – plus we all need quick and tasty ideas from time to time, so I’m saying this one’s amazeballs. I really must pick up some Daiya next time I’m at the store – I’ve been meaning to try it for months now :D
Kelly
Thanks, Julia! :)
Gayle @ Pumpkin 'N Spice
I love the idea of combining cheese and quinoa, Kelly! I’ve never thought to do that before! This looks like a fantastic meal or side dish!
Kelly
Thanks, Gayle!