Cauliflower and Vegetable Bake with Sour Cream and Cheese

This Cauliflower and Vegetable Bake with Sour Cream and Cheese is a wholesome, nutrient-packed dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With a variety of vegetables layered with a creamy egg mixture and topped with cheese, it’s both hearty and satisfying. Rich in vitamins and minerals, this bake is a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, making it a favorite for vegetarians and veggie-lovers alike.

Preparation Time:
Total Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

Vegetables:
1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, grated
1 ¾ cup (200g) mushrooms, chopped
1 medium zucchini, cut into small pieces
Salt, to taste
Pepper mixture, to taste
1 cup (100g) cherry tomatoes, chopped
1 small cucumber, grated
Fresh dill, chopped

Egg Mixture:
4 large eggs
¾ cup (200g) sour cream
Salt, to taste

Topping:
¾ cup (100g) cheese, grated
¼ cup (60g) sour cream
3 tbsp (40g) mayonnaise
Salt, to taste
Pepper mixture, to taste
2 cloves garlic, chopped

Directions:

  • Prepare the Cauliflower:
    Cut the cauliflower into florets, boil in salted water until tender, drain, and set aside.
  • Cook the Vegetables:
    Fry chopped onion in oil until translucent. Add grated carrot and cook until softened. Add chopped mushrooms and fry until browned. Cook zucchini until tender and season with salt and pepper.
  • Make the Egg Mixture:
    In a bowl, beat eggs with sour cream and a pinch of salt. Add chopped cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley, then mix.
  • Assemble the Bake:
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish. Layer the cauliflower and cooked vegetables, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the bake.
  • Bake:
    Bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
  • Prepare the Topping:
    In a small bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, chopped garlic, and grated cucumber. Add chopped dill for extra flavor.
  • Serve:
    Let the bake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with the sour cream and cucumber topping for an extra creamy, fresh taste.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with a fresh green salad.
  • Serve with garlic bread or crusty bread.

Cooking Tips:

  • Make sure vegetables are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
  • Adjust seasoning to your preference before baking.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Rich in Vitamins A, C, and K: From the mix of vegetables.
  • High in Fiber: Aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
  • Protein-Rich: Thanks to the eggs and cheese, supporting muscle function and repair.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-free
  • Vegetarian (Use vegetarian-friendly mayonnaise or omit.)

Nutritional Facts (per serving):
Calories: 210
Protein: 11g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 230mg

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with a variety of vegetables.
  • Comforting and Satisfying: With a creamy, cheesy topping.
  • Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
  • Customizable: Add or swap your favorite vegetables.

Conclusion:
This Cauliflower and Vegetable Bake with Sour Cream and Cheese is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, delivering wholesome nutrition in every bite. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, it’s a go-to meal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this bake is sure to become a favorite at your table.

10 Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I add more vegetables to this bake?
    Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli.
  2. Can I use other types of cheese?
    Absolutely! Cheddar, Parmesan, or even feta would work well.
  3. Is this bake suitable for meal prep?
    Yes, it stores well and can be reheated for quick meals throughout the week.
  4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
    Yes, use a dairy-free sour cream and cheese substitute for a vegan-friendly option.
  5. How can I make the bake more filling?
    Add cooked lentils, quinoa, or beans for extra protein and substance.
  6. Can I make this bake in advance?
    Yes, assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
  7. What can I use instead of sour cream?
    Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as substitutes.
  8. Can I freeze this bake?
    Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven for best results.
  9. What should I serve with this bake?
    A light side salad or steamed vegetables complements it well.
  10. How can I prevent the bake from being watery?
    Ensure vegetables are well-drained and not too moist before layering in the dish.