This baked vegetable casserole is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines fresh vegetables with a savory cheese and egg mixture, topped off with a refreshing yogurt sauce. It’s perfect for a wholesome family dinner or a hearty brunch. Packed with vitamins and minerals, this casserole is both delicious and good for you!
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 25-30 minutes
- Total: 45-50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 1 zucchini, grated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 3 large mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Hot chili pepper to taste
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 70-100g cheese, grated
- 3 eggs
- 50 ml milk
- 2-3 tbsp flour
- Fresh dill, chopped
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 4-5 tbsp yogurt
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
Directions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, finely chopped onion, grated carrot, sliced mushrooms, and chopped bell pepper. Season with salt, black pepper, and hot chili pepper to taste.
- Add the chopped tomato and grated cheese to the vegetable mixture.
- Prepare Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk. Gradually add the flour and mix until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and mix well to combine.
- Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Prepare Yogurt Sauce:
- While the casserole is baking, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, chopped dill, parsley or cilantro, and minced garlic. Mix well.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the baked zucchini casserole with a dollop of the yogurt sauce on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
- Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
Cooking Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add more hot chili pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or cheddar, for varied flavors.
- Ensure the vegetables are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini: Low in calories, high in vitamins A and C, and a good source of fiber.
- Carrot: Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, and antioxidants.
- Mushrooms: Provide important nutrients like selenium, potassium, and vitamin D.
- Bell Pepper: High in vitamins A, C, and antioxidants.
- Eggs: Excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Yogurt: Good source of probiotics, calcium, and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This casserole is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
- Low-Carb: Relatively low in carbs, especially if you choose a lower-carb flour substitute.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables, cheese, and spices creates a deliciously savory dish.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients from a variety of vegetables.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this a hassle-free recipe.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Conclusion:
This baked vegetable casserole is a versatile and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delightful combination of fresh vegetables and savory cheese, all topped with a refreshing yogurt sauce. Give it a try, and savor the wholesome goodness!