Sausage and Apple Quinoa Casserole

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Sausage and Apple Quinoa Casserole

Cook's Notes: All I can say is wow and wow! This casserole is definitely a winner in my book. With an explosion of complex flavors and textures, you might even want a second helping.  This casserole is definitely a winner in my book. A healthy dose of quinoa which is high in fiber and a good source of nutrients like manganese, magnesium, and copper.  Chicken Apple Sausage adds protein to the dish has no MSG and it's GF. There are several flavors to choose from I chose Italian. Another healthy addition to the casserole is kale or spinach. Tart cranberries, toasted pecans, and crisp apple cubes elevate the dish to a whole new level. It was adapted from Taste of Home Magazine  Fall 2023 and serves 4.The casserole with served with a slice of Apple Butter Bread

 https://sockfairies.blogspot.com/2023/08/apple-butter-bread-with-cinnamon-glaze.html

Sausage and Apple Quinoa Casserole recipe was adapted from Taste of Home Magazine  Fall 2023 and serves 4.

Cooking Tip: Prep ingredients ahead so that putting the recipe together goes smoother. 

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 package smoked kielbasa or chicken apple sausage, cut in 1/2-inch slices
• 3/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup diced mini peppers red, yellow, orange
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup apple cider or juice
• Dash or two of red pepper flakes (start out small)
• 3 cups torn spinach leaves or kale
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 medium crisp apple like Cosmos or Honey crisp 
• 1/3 cup toasted pecans
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries

 Directions:

• Dice sausage, onions, peppers, rinse quinoa, and tear spinach leaves. 
• In a large fry pan heat oil and saute sausage, onions, and peppers for about 8 minutes. 
• Push ingredients to the side and wipe the pan clean of grease. Add broth and cider and bring to a boil. Stir in spinach or kale and quinoa. Reduce heat and simmer covered until liquid is absorbed about 15 -20 minutes. Stir in a dash of red pepper flakes and mix well.
  
• Remove from heat and add in apples, cranberries, and pecans.