Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

• 400 g cauliflower (1 medium head)
• 1 liter water
• Salt to taste

For the Batter:

• 2 eggs
• 1/3 tsp turmeric
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp garlic mayonnaise (recipe below)

For the Vegetables:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 ear of fresh corn (or 150 g canned corn)
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt to taste

For the Cheese:

• 100 g feta cheese, cubed
• 50 g mozzarella, grated
• 50 g cheese (for topping)

For the Garlic Mayonnaise:

• 1 egg
• 1 tsp mustard
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 1 head garlic, roasted
• 180 ml oil

For Garnish:

• 30 g fresh dill, chopped
• 1 sprig parsley

How to Make Cheesy Baked Summer Cauliflower Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

1. Cut and Boil: Break the cauliflower into florets and bring 1 liter of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower and cook for 3 minutes.
2. Ice Bath: Prepare a bowl of ice water. Remove the cauliflower from the boiling water and transfer it to the ice bath for 10-15 minutes to preserve its crispness and color. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a mixing bowl, beat 2 eggs with a pinch of salt, turmeric, and black pepper.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in 1 cup of yogurt until smooth.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until no lumps remain. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Mayonnaise

1. Roast the Garlic: Peel 1 head of garlic and roast it in 180 ml of oil until golden brown. Remove the garlic and let the oil cool completely.
2. Blend: In a blender, combine 1 egg, mustard, lemon juice, roasted garlic, and salt. Slowly add the cooled oil while blending to create a thick, creamy mayonnaise.

Step 4: Combine the Batter and Cauliflower

1. Mash the Cauliflower: Using a blender or fork, roughly mash the cauliflower. Avoid making it too fine; small chunks add texture.
2. Add to Batter: Stir the mashed cauliflower into the batter, along with chopped dill. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Sauté the Onion: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 1-2 minutes until translucent.
2. Add Carrot and Corn: Stir in the grated carrot and corn kernels. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Season: Add sugar, salt, and a pinch of Italian herbs. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer Vegetables: Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly in a greased baking dish.
2. Add Feta and Mozzarella: Sprinkle the cubed feta and grated mozzarella over the vegetables.
3. Pour Batter: Pour the cauliflower batter over the vegetables and cheese, ensuring it spreads evenly.

Step 7: Bake

1. First Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the casserole for 50 minutes until set and lightly golden.
2. Add Cheese Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle 50 g of grated cheese on top, and return to the oven. Increase the temperature to 200°C (392°F) and bake for 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with a dollop of garlic mayonnaise.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cauliflower Casserole

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cauliflower and corn enhance the flavor and texture. Frozen vegetables can be used in a pinch but may require slight adjustments to cooking time.
2. Avoid Overcooking: Parboil the cauliflower for only 3 minutes to retain its crunch and prevent it from becoming mushy.
3. Customize the Cheese: Swap feta and mozzarella for cheddar, Gouda, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
4. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on herbs and spices; they bring depth to the dish.
5. Experiment with Additions: Add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for variety.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sodium: 450 mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole vegan?
Yes! Substitute the eggs with flaxseed or chia seed mixtures, use vegan yogurt, and replace the cheese with plant-based alternatives.

2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store cooled casserole portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

4. What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

5. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Certainly! Cooked chicken, ground turkey, or bacon would make excellent additions.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Reheating: Reheat in a 180°C (356°F) oven until warmed through to retain texture and flavor

Why This Recipe is a Classic

The Cheesy Baked Summer Cauliflower Casserole combines tradition with a modern twist, showcasing the versatility of cauliflower. Its creamy, cheesy richness and vibrant vegetables create a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The addition of homemade garlic mayonnaise adds a gourmet touch that elevates the flavor to new heights.

This casserole’s timeless appeal lies in its adaptability. It can be a comforting weeknight dinner or a star at a summer potluck. Its ease of preparation and satisfying taste make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Conclusion

Creating a Cheesy Baked Summer Cauliflower Casserole is not just about cooking; it’s about crafting a dish that celebrates the season and brings joy to the table. Its balance of flavors, textures, and colors makes it a standout recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you’re serving it to loved ones or savoring it yourself, this casserole is a reminder of the beauty of home-cooked meals. The process of preparing fresh ingredients, layering flavors, and watching it bake into perfection is deeply rewarding. Try this timeless recipe, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it season after season.