Print

Wholesome Clean Eating Vegetable Casserole with Protein Boost

clean eating vegetable casserole - featured image

A quick and easy vegetable casserole packed with clean ingredients and protein, perfect for healthy meals that are comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup canned white beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the diced zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, and grated carrot to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies are fork-tender but not mushy.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, rinsed white beans, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and eggs. Stir well until creamy and smooth. Mix in Parmesan cheese (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the bowl with the protein mixture. Fold gently to combine evenly. If mixture is too loose, add a tablespoon of oat flour or breadcrumbs to bind.
  6. Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the mixture into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until edges are golden brown and center is set. Test doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Use room temperature eggs for better binding. Drain and rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium and canned flavor. Let casserole rest after baking to firm up for easier slicing. Substitute dairy ingredients for vegan or dairy-free options as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegetable casserole, clean eating, healthy meals, protein boost, quinoa casserole, easy dinner, vegetarian casserole