This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is a wholesome and delicious dish that combines fresh vegetables with a creamy, cheesy batter. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this recipe is full of comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- Vegetables:
- Broccoli: 1 head, cut into florets
- Cauliflower: 1 head, cut into florets
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Sweet peppers: 2, diced
- Seasoning:
- Salt: To taste
- Black pepper: To taste
- Italian herbs: To taste
- Batter:
- Eggs: 4
- Cream: 1/2 cup (100 ml)
- Flour: 4 tablespoons
- Fresh dill and parsley: Chopped
- Cheese: Grated (amount to taste)
- Other Ingredients:
- Olive oil: For sautéing
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Blanch the broccoli and cauliflower florets in boiling salted water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Peppers:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced sweet peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Mix the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, flour, salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs until smooth.
- Add the chopped dill and parsley, and mix well.
- Assemble the Bake:
- In a greased baking dish, layer the broccoli and cauliflower florets evenly.
- Spread the sautéed onion and pepper mixture over the vegetables.
- Pour the egg and cream batter over the vegetables, ensuring it covers everything evenly.
- Sprinkle grated cheese generously on top.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the batter is set.
- Serve:
- Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light vegetarian meal.
- Enjoy as a brunch option with crusty bread.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with almond or coconut flour.
Nutritional Benefits
- Broccoli and cauliflower are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber.
- Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D.
- Fresh herbs add antioxidants and enhance the flavor without added calories.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No (can be adapted by using gluten-free flour)
- Dairy-Free: No (can be adapted with dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes)
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the comforting flavors of cheese with the goodness of fresh vegetables.
- Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
- Easily customizable with your favorite seasonings and vegetables.
- A nutritious and hearty dish suitable for any time of the day.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone meal, its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to delight everyone at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?
Yes, thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture. - Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage can be added for extra protein. - What other vegetables can I include?
Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. - How do I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based cream and cheese substitutes. - Can I replace cream with milk?
Yes, use whole milk for a lighter version, but the texture may be less creamy. - What cheese works best for this bake?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both work well. - Can I skip the eggs?
Use an egg substitute or a mixture of flaxseed and water as a binding agent. - How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
Ensure vegetables are well-drained after blanching and don’t overuse cream. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze after baking and let it cool completely. Reheat directly from frozen or after thawing.