Vegan Spinach Rice Casserole Receipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice (brown or white)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup coconut milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Stir in the rice, vegetable broth, coconut milk, chickpeas, nutritional yeast (if using), dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Once the rice is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  8. Transfer the rice mixture to a lightly greased casserole dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy texture.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
  10. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
  11. Serve warm as a main dish or as a side dish alongside your favorite vegan protein.

Enjoy your delicious vegan spinach rice casserole!

Introduction: Indulge in the wholesome goodness of our Vegan Spinach Rice Casserole, a delightful blend of nutritious ingredients and savory flavors. This delectable dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nourishing addition to your plant-based diet. Packed with spinach, rice, and protein-rich chickpeas, this casserole offers a satisfying meal that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice (brown or white)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup coconut milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is prepared for baking.
  2. Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps remove excess starch and ensures a fluffy texture once cooked.
  3. In a spacious skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and release their aroma, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  4. Introduce the chopped spinach to the skillet, allowing it to wilt gently in the fragrant mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  5. Incorporate the rice, vegetable broth, coconut milk, chickpeas, nutritional yeast (if opting for added flavor and nutrients), dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow the flavors to meld as the rice absorbs the liquid, approximately 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  7. As the rice cooks, take a moment to prepare your casserole dish by lightly greasing it, ensuring an effortless release once baked to perfection.
  8. Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary to suit your palate.
  9. Carefully transfer the flavorful rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
  10. For an added crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
  11. Slide your masterpiece into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top develops a golden brown hue and the casserole is heated through.
  12. Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving, ensuring each bite is enjoyed at the perfect temperature.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 38g
    • Dietary Fiber: 6g
    • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 7g

Smart WW Points: 6 points per serving

Conclusion: Elevate your culinary experience with our Vegan Spinach Rice Casserole, a delightful harmony of wholesome ingredients and satisfying flavors. Whether enjoyed as a comforting main dish or served alongside your favorite vegan protein, this casserole is a testament to the versatility and nourishment of plant-based cuisine. With its nutrient-rich profile and irresistible taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and embark on a journey of culinary delight and wholesome nourishment.