Quinoa" Mac" and Cheese

So, if you're like me, the phrase "mac and cheese" screams 2 things:
1. Comfort Food
2. Butter and cheese....aka...an extra mile on the treadmill.
So, when I found this recipe, I jumped at the chance to make this comfort dish in a healthier version.

I've said it before on this blog, quinoa is your friend.
Do not be afraid .
And...buy it at costco...it's cheaper for how much you get.

So, we made this dish tonight and tested it on our toughest critics...the kids.
Guess what...THEY LOVED IT!
So, I'm passing it on to you.

I served veggies on the side, along with some pears and crystal light. An all around healthy and filling meal.
Enjoy!
-Matti


Quinoa Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
good pinch of salt
2 tea. crushed garlic (or minced)
2 dashes seasoning salt
2 large eggs (I used egg substitute)
1 cup skim milk
1 1/2 cup grated cheddar or cheddar/jack cheese, plus some for sprinkling on top
Optional: panko bread crumbs for topping (I skipped this part)
Veggies: either in the dish or on the side

1. Lightly saute any veggies you would like in this dish.
2. Cook quinoa to packaged instructions until fully cooked. (About 12- 15 minutes)
3. Preheat oven to 350 F. Coat 13x9 inch dish( or 8 individual ramekins) with cooking spray.Whisk together eggs, garlic and milk in large bowl. Fold in quinoa mixture and cheese. Stir very well and let some of the cheese melt. Transfer to prepared baking dish and if using Panko Crumbs or Bread crumbs add now and bake 25-30 mins, until bread crumbs are browned.