Spinach & Rice Casserole

Submitted by stef5

"o.k. kids--if anyone's a vegetarian out there, give this one a whirl. it's monster tasty! also, very good for you-low in fat, high protein! *a note on the basil-if you've got fresh-use it! i go about 1/4 cup if fresh (chiffonade it)"

 

• Ready In: 45mins
• Ingredients: 12
• Serves: 4-6

ingredients

• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 -4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 8 ounces soft tofu, drained
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed & drained
• 1⁄2 cup shredded swiss cheese
• salt & pepper
• sesame seeds

directions

1. In large saucepan, cook onion & garlic till tender in oil-do not brown. Add UNDRAINED tomatoes & oregano & basil. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered about 3 minute.
2. Meanwhile, place tofu in food processor or blender-process until smooth. Add to tomato mixture. Stir in cooked rice, spinach, HALF of swiss, salt & pepper.
3. Lightly grease (olive oil pam works well) an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch casserole. Spoon in mixture & top w/ remaining cheese & a Tbsp or 2 of sesame seeds.
4. Bake, uncovered at 350°F for 30-40 minute.

Reviews

[Dominick and Amanda]

I loved this recipe. I made a few changes and it came out wonderful. I didn't use any tofu. Instead I used half a can of vegetable broth. I used white rice cause I didn't have any brown. I also used more garlic (because I love it). I think I may add broccoli and mushrooms next time I make this. It was great though! A fun recipe to play with.

 

[debzita]

Loved this! Finally, a healthy, delicious, dairy-free casserole that is high in protein! I omitted the cheese and added a heaping spoonful of dairy-free sour cream (Tofutti brand). I don't have a food processor and blending the tofu was a little messy, so in a pinch I might skip that step and just use the Tofutti sour cream instead. I will also try Dominick & Amanda's suggestion of using vegetable broth. Like them, I also used about twice the amount of garlic. I can't wait to try adding other veggies and maybe chick peas to this recipe. Delish!

 

[archimageiros]

I really liked it. I thought the texture was gross until I cooked it; then it became awesome.