Pizza-Inspired Grain Casserole

This vegetarian pizza-inspired grain casserole is packed with warming flavours and can be served as a main meal with a side of salad.

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 min

Cooking Time: 30 min

Total:  45 min

Ingredients

Casserole before topping with cheese and baking.

1 cup brown rice or quinoa, rinsed and drained
2 cups water
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 onion, diced
2-3 cloves garlic, pressed
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
6-8 white mushrooms, sliced
1 red bell pepper, chopped into small pieces
1 zucchini, cut into small pieces
1 Japanese eggplant, diced (optional)
2 cups plain tomato sauce or roasted red pepper sauce
1 cup grated Mozzerella cheese or vegan substitute
salt and pepper

Directions

1. Combine rice and water in a pot. Cover and bring to a boil, cooking until grain is tender and water has fully evaporated.
2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet. Saute onions and garlic until lightly browned. Add eggplant, zucchini and herbs, stirring occasionally.
3. Add mushrooms and red pepper and cook until tender.
4. When rice is cooked, transfer to skillet with the vegetables. Add tomato sauce and stir well. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Transfer mixture to a large casserole dish and spread evenly. Top with grated cheese and bake in a preheated oven for 15 minutes, until cheese has melted.
6. Serve immediately, with a side of salad.