Baked Zucchini and Lentil Bake with Cheese and Quinoa

Baked Zucchini and Lentil Bake with Cheese and Quinoa is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with protein-packed lentils and quinoa, all topped with a melty cheese layer. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for any night of the week.

Baked Zucchini and Lentil Bake with Cheese and Quinoa
50 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
450 kcal

Ingredients

  • Zucchini - 2 medium (about 300g)
  • Cooked green or brown lentils - 1 cup (240g)
  • Cooked quinoa - 1 cup (185g)
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup (100g)
  • Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup (25g)
  • Onion - 1 small, diced (about 100g)
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Olive oil - 1 tablespoon (15ml)
  • Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
  • Dried basil - 1 teaspoon
  • Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
  • Egg - 1 large
  • Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional for garnish)

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Wash and slice the zucchini into thin rounds.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cooked quinoa, sautéed onion and garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix well.
  6. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the zucchini slices at the bottom.
  7. Spread the lentil and quinoa mixture evenly over the zucchini layer.
  8. Top with the remaining zucchini slices.
  9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
  12. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Carbs: 55 g
  • Fiber: 15 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in plant-based protein from lentils and quinoa, promoting muscle health.
  • High in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Tags

AmericanKosherDinner