dinner

Bake

This bake is my ultimate comfort dish, especially on chilly evenings when I crave something warm and nourishing. It's like a hug from the inside, packed with hearty veggies and grains that make me smile every time.

Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 45 min
Total Time: 65 min
Servings: 6
Difficulty: medium
Bake - Vegan recipe hero image

I remember the first time I made this bake—it was one of those days when the rain wouldn't stop, and all I wanted was to cozy up with something wholesome.

I found that sautéing the onions and garlic just right adds a depth of flavor that's totally worth the extra few minutes.

This recipe has become a staple in my house because it’s simple to throw together and endlessly adaptable.

It's one of those meals that feels like self-care in a dish.

What Makes This Recipe Special

  • Made with simple, plant-based ingredients that are easy to find
  • No animal products - completely vegan and cruelty-free
  • Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike
  • Delicious results that everyone will love, vegan or not

Ingredients & Substitutions

If you’re out of chickpeas, black beans or lentils work just as well and add a different texture. Feel free to use whatever veggies you have on hand—I've swapped in zucchini and it was delicious. For my gluten-free pals, just double-check that your ingredients are all certified gluten-free.

Tips & Notes

  • Rinsing the quinoa well is key to removing that bitter taste; I usually let it soak for a few minutes and give it a good swirl.
  • I like to sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor that's just divine.
  • When I make extra, I store leftovers in my favorite glass container in the fridge; it tastes even better the next day.

Recipe Variations

  • If I'm in the mood for something sweeter, I toss in some roasted sweet potato cubes.
  • My friend Ava swears by adding a handful of roasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch and nuttiness.

Storage & Freezing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to eat.

What can I serve with this bake?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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This bake is my ultimate comfort dish, especially on chilly evenings when I crave something warm and nourishing. It's like a hug from the inside, packed with hearty veggies and grains that make me smile every time.

Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 45 min
Total Time: 65 min
Servings: 6
Difficulty: medium

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. 2

    In a medium pot, combine 1 cup of rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

  3. 3

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, zucchini, bell pepper, carrot, and spinach.

  4. 4

    Add the tomato sauce, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, basil, and oregano to the vegetable mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

  5. 5

    Grease a baking dish with olive oil (optional) and pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

  6. 6

    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

  7. 7

    After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

  8. 8

    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy bake!

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