This flavorful and healthy cauliflower casserole is packed with vegetables and topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese. It’s a fantastic dish for lunch or dinner, combining the crunch of cauliflower with the vibrant flavors of peppers, mushrooms, and carrots. The touch of mint and red pepper flakes adds a unique twist, making this casserole a satisfying and tasty option for any occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

Cauliflower: 1.5 kilograms
Water: 1.5 liters

Salt: 1 teaspoon (8 grams) for boiling the cauliflower
Milk: 2 tablespoons (16 ml)
Eggs: 3, lightly beaten

Flour: 3 tablespoons (60 grams)
Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons (18 ml)
Mushrooms: 5 (100 grams), chopped

Green peppers: 4, chopped
Red peppers: 2, chopped
Carrot: 1, grated or chopped

Onion: 1, chopped
Tomatoes: 2, chopped
Additional salt: 1 teaspoon (8 grams)

Mint: 1 teaspoon
Red pepper flakes: 1 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1 teaspoon

Olive oil: 4 tablespoons (25 ml)
Cheddar cheese: 150 grams, shredded

Instructions:

Prepare the Cauliflower:
Start by washing and cutting the cauliflower into florets. Bring 1.5 liters of water to a boil in a large pot, add 1 teaspoon of salt, and then carefully add the cauliflower florets. Boil them for about 8-10 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables:
Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Next, add the chopped mushrooms, green and red peppers, grated carrot, and chopped tomatoes. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until all the vegetables are tender and well combined.
Season the Vegetables:
Once the vegetables are cooked, add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of mint, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the vegetable mixture.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, and milk until smooth. This mixture will help bind the cauliflower and vegetables in the casserole.

Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
In a large baking dish, arrange the boiled cauliflower florets. Pour the sautéed vegetables evenly over the cauliflower. Then, drizzle the egg mixture over the top to help bind the ingredients together.
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, ensuring that it covers the entire surface for a rich, cheesy crust.
Bake:
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake at 180°C (356°F) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like mint or parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips:

You can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or a blend of cheeses to suit your taste.
For added flavor, consider roasting the cauliflower instead of boiling it before assembling the casserole. This can give it a slightly caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the other vegetables.

If you prefer a spicier casserole, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing: This casserole can also be frozen. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 180°C (356°F) until warmed through.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, simply pop it in the oven and cook as directed.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or eggplant. Just be mindful of the water content in certain vegetables, as they may affect the texture of the casserole.

Conclusion:

This Baked Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for a family meal or as a side for special occasions. Packed with nutritious vegetables, savory spices, and topped with gooey cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying option for both vegetarians and those looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. With its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, this casserole can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this cheesy, flavorful casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy this healthy, filling, and scrumptious meal with your loved ones.

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