Quinoa with Spinach and Bacon

Quinoa spinach bacon and breadcrumb side dish warm and healthy

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4.67 from 3 votes

Quinoa with Spinach and Bacon

A fantastic combination of flavors. Pairs perfectly with pork loin or saucy chicken thighs.

Prep Time35

Cook Time20

Total Time55

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: bacon, healthy, quinoa

Servings: servings

Calories:

Ingredients

1 C uncooked quinoa I like tri-color
2 C french bread cut into small cubes
3 tablespoon butter
1 shallot coursely chopped
4 slices bacon cooked, crumbled
3 C fresh spinach
½ C asiago cheese or parmesan

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°. Line a baking sheet with foil. Lay bacon on foil and bake for 18-20 minutes, until bacon is crisp. Remove and drain on paper towel lined plate. Crumble and set aside.
Reduce oven temp to 350°. Place bread cubes on a baking sheet and toss with olive oil and pinch of salt. Place in oven to crisp up. About 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Add chopped shallot. Sauté until fragrant and translucent. Add bread cubes to skillet and mix with butter and shallot until all is warm and combined (about 3 minutes).
To the quinoa add: bread mixture, spinach, bacon and cheese over medium heat (reserving a little bit of bacon and cheese for topping). Heat through until spinach is wilted and mixture is hot.
Salt and pepper to taste. Top with reserved bacon and cheese. Enjoy!

Notes

There is a bit more prep in this recipe than I typically prefer. However, the elements can all be made ahead of time and then thrown together and heated right before serving. I hope you love this recipe as much as I do!

Nutrition