Indulge in a hearty and wholesome meal with this Vegan Cheesy Beans and Grains recipe—a flavorful fusion of plant-based protein, creamy textures, and vibrant spices. Perfectly fluffy quinoa serves as the base, paired with tender cannellini beans and a luscious vegan cheese sauce made from nutritional yeast, almond milk, and a hint of smoked paprika for that irresistible cheesy tang. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder is both nourishing and comforting, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or meal prep option. Garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy dairy-free comfort food without compromise.
Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegan cheese sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the almond milk, nutritional yeast, tapioca starch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Slowly pour in the whisked cheese sauce mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
Drain and rinse the cooked beans if using canned. Add them to the pot of cooked quinoa and stir to combine.
Pour the vegan cheese sauce over the quinoa and bean mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Spoon the Vegan Cheesy Beans and Grains into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Calories |
658 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 21.4 g | 27% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2560 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 93.7 g | 34% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.6 g | 84% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.7 g | ||
| Protein | 29.3 g | 59% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.5 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 632 mg | 49% | |
| Iron | 10.7 mg | 59% | |
| Potassium | 1568 mg | 33% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.