Quick and Easy Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa (Gluten-Free)

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Chris had to work very late the last week in September, so Bradley and I were on our own for dinner most nights. We went on a mother-son date, went to my parents' house and had a few quick dinners at home. Most of our at-home dinners consisted of me making Bradley a healthy dinner and then browsing the freezer for my own dinner options. I don't know what it is, but I can never motivate myself to make a big dinner for myself when Chris isn't home. Needless to say, I'm very happy he's going to be around for dinner from now on. I don't know how many Lean Pockets a girl can eat!

My mom recently made roasted broccoli, which Bradley LOVED, so I decided to put it into the dinner I made for us one night. I figure I should try to incorporate it into his diet as much as I can, right? Since he also loves cheese, I made us a cheesy quinoa dish with steamed broccoli. He loved it. (Obviously. There aren't many things this kid doesn't like.) And this was one night where I finally passed on the Lean Pockets and enjoyed a home-cooked meal myself. Thank goodness. Enjoy!

Printable Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 12 oz. frozen broccoli, chopped
• 1 tbsp. butter
• 1 tbsp. flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt
• Pepper, to taste

Rinse quinoa well using a fine mesh strainer.

Combine quinoa and water in a small pot. Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender. During the last 7 minutes of cooking, add broccoli. When quinoa is done, drain the quinoa and broccoli in a fine mesh strainer.

Meanwhile, melt butter in a small pot. Sprinkle flour over butter and whisk for about 1 minute. Slowly add in milk, whisking constantly. Continue whisking until mixture thickens. Add cheese and stir until melted. Add seasoned salt and pepper. Taste and add more seasonings, as needed.

Add quinoa and broccoli to a large bowl. Cover in cheese sauce. Serve immediately.

Source: SK Original