This Baked Vegetable and Rice Casserole is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the fresh flavors of courgettes, onions, garlic, and dill with the richness of Greek yogurt and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a wholesome meal, this casserole is baked to perfection, making it a delightful addition to your dinner table.
Preparation Time:
- Total: 1 hour
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 courgettes
- Salt
- Paprika
- Spices for vegetables
- 2 onions
- 2-3 cloves garlic
- Pepper
- 2-3 eggs (depending on size)
- 150 grams Greek yogurt
- A bunch of dill
- 150 grams rice
- 200 ml water
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Paprika pepper
- Tomatoes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Slice the courgettes and onions.
- Mince the garlic.
- Lightly fry the courgettes, onions, and garlic in a pan with a pinch of salt, paprika, and your preferred spices for vegetables until they are slightly softened.
- Prepare the Rice:
- In a separate pot, combine the rice and 200 ml of water.
- Cook over medium heat until the water has completely evaporated and the rice is cooked through.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix the fried vegetables with the cooked rice.
- Add the eggs, Greek yogurt, chopped dill, and a pinch of pepper. Mix well.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Top with sliced tomatoes, grated mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle with paprika pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh dill if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for added texture.
- This casserole can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats or fish.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to cook the rice until all water has evaporated to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Lightly fry the vegetables to enhance their flavors before baking.
- Use fresh herbs like dill to add a burst of freshness to the dish.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Courgettes: Low in calories, rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Greek Yogurt: High in protein and probiotics.
- Dill: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein to the dish.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free by ensuring spices and other ingredients are gluten-free
- Contains dairy and eggs
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Creamy and cheesy with a delightful texture.
- Versatile and can be served in various ways.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
- Wholesome and nutritious, making it a great choice for a family meal.
Conclusion:
This Baked Vegetable and Rice Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the goodness of fresh vegetables, rice, and cheese. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a nutritious meal prep option, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite!