This baked vegetable and cheese casserole is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for any meal. Combining nutritious broccoli, cauliflower, and a variety of colorful vegetables with a creamy egg mixture and melted cheese, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to prepare and makes a satisfying main course or a delightful side dish.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 broccoli
- Salt
- 2 tablespoons milk (for broccoli)
- 400 g cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons milk (for cauliflower)
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 clove garlic
- Mushrooms (amount as desired)
- 1 red pepper
- 1 yellow pepper
- Cherry tomatoes (amount as desired)
- 4 eggs
- 5 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 130 g flour
- 500 ml (2.5 cups) milk
- Parsley (amount as desired)
- 150 g cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare Broccoli:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add salt and 2 tablespoons of milk.
- Add the broccoli and cook for 2 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cauliflower:
- Bring another pot of water to a boil.
- Add salt and 2 tablespoons of milk.
- Add the cauliflower and cook for 4 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the onion, carrot, garlic, mushrooms, red pepper, yellow pepper, and cherry tomatoes.
- Heat 5 tablespoons of sunflower oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion, carrot, and garlic until they are soft.
- Add the mushrooms, red pepper, and yellow pepper, and sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Set the vegetable mixture aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat the 4 eggs.
- Add a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add 130 g of flour, mixing well to avoid lumps.
- Slowly add 500 ml (2.5 cups) of milk while continuously stirring.
- Add chopped parsley to the mixture.
- Combine and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a baking dish, combine the cooked broccoli, cauliflower, and sautéed vegetables.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and mix gently to ensure everything is well coated.
- Sprinkle 150 g of grated cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the mixture is set.
- Serving:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad and crusty bread.
- Pair it with a light soup for a complete meal.
- Enjoy it as a side dish with roasted meats or grilled fish.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the vegetables are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Use a variety of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
- High in protein from the eggs and cheese.
- Contains healthy fats from olive oil and cheese.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour
- Contains dairy and eggs
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s packed with nutritious vegetables.
- It’s versatile and can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish.
- It’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping.
- The combination of creamy cheese and fresh vegetables is simply delicious.
Conclusion:
This baked vegetable and cheese casserole is a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Whether you’re looking for a hearty main dish or a flavorful side, this casserole is sure to satisfy. With its nutritious ingredients and delicious taste, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the wonderful health benefits of this delightful recipe. Bon appétit!