This vegetable bake combines tender broccoli, cauliflower, and a medley of other vegetables in a rich, savory custard. With a cheesy topping and a homemade garlic herb sauce, it’s perfect as a main or side dish, bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Vegetable Bake
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped
- 400 grams (about 2 cups) cauliflower, chopped
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for boiling)
- 1 onion, chopped
- Olive oil, for frying
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 sprig of cherry tomatoes
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt (for custard)
- 5 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 cup (130 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2.5 cups (500 ml) milk
- Fresh parsley and dill, chopped
- 150 grams (1 1/2 cups) cheese, grated (cheddar or mozzarella)
Garlic Herb Sauce
- 2 tablespoons yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped
Directions
- Prepare Broccoli and Cauliflower
- Chop broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.
- In a pot, add 1 tablespoon salt, 2 tablespoons milk, and bring to a boil. Add broccoli, cook for 2 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- Add cauliflower to the pot, with 1 tablespoon salt and 2 tablespoons milk, bring to a boil, and cook for 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add grated carrot, minced garlic, sliced peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Prepare the Custard Base
- In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs with 1 teaspoon salt and 5 tablespoons sunflower oil.
- Gradually add flour, whisking until smooth.
- Slowly pour in 2.5 cups milk while stirring, then add chopped parsley and dill.
- Combine and Bake
- In a large baking dish, spread out the cooked broccoli, cauliflower, and sautéed vegetables.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the vegetables.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set.
- Prepare Garlic Herb Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Mix well.
- Serve
- Slice and serve warm with a drizzle of the garlic herb sauce on top. Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
- Add a side salad for a fresh contrast.
- Pair with roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Serve with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
- Top with extra herbs for a burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcook the broccoli and cauliflower, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
- Use a sharp cheese for added flavor—cheddar or Parmesan work well.
- Make sure to whisk the eggs well to avoid any lumps in the custard.
- Fresh herbs add great flavor, but dried parsley and dill can work in a pinch.
- For a golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Fiber: Broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots provide fiber for digestion.
- Protein-Rich: Eggs and cheese add a good source of protein.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Peppers and tomatoes contain vitamins A and C.
- Calcium & Vitamin D: Cheese and milk contribute calcium and vitamin D.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and sunflower oil offer heart-healthy fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No (contains flour, but gluten-free flour can substitute)
- Nut-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: No (contains milk and cheese, but dairy-free alternatives can substitute)
Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Just a few steps for a hearty, comforting dish.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables and protein.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy flavor and mild custard make it appealing.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day!
- Versatile: Can be served as a main or side dish.
Conclusion
This Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is a wonderfully balanced dish, combining tender vegetables with a creamy, cheesy custard. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and suitable for any meal of the day. The garlic herb sauce adds a burst of flavor, making every bite irresistible. Enjoy this wholesome, easy-to-make bake with family or friends for a nutritious, satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and drain them before adding. - What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both works great. - Can I make this bake dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms would be delicious. - How can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.