Vegetable Casserole with Creamy Cucumber Dressing

Experience the delightful blend of vegetables and savory seasonings in this hearty vegetable casserole. Topped with a golden, cheesy crust and served with a refreshing creamy cucumber dressing, this dish is perfect for family dinners or as a comforting meal on its own.

Ingredients

  • Vegetables:
    • 2 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
    • 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
    • 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
    • 1 small broccoli, cut into florets
    • 1 pepper, sliced
    • 1 leek, sliced
  • Casserole Mixture:
    • 3 eggs
    • 400 ml (1 ½ cups) milk, divided into two parts
    • 130 grams (1 cup) flour
    • 150 grams (1 ½ cups) cheese, grated
    • 5 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon salt, plus more to taste
    • Black pepper, to taste
    • French spices (a blend of herbs like thyme, marjoram, rosemary, tarragon, etc.)
  • Creamy Cucumber Dressing:
    • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
    • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
    • Garlic, minced
    • Cucumbers, grated or finely chopped
    • Dill, chopped

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

 

Directions

  1. Precook Vegetables:
    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and the sliced potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, and broccoli. Cook for 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half of the milk, and flour until smooth. Add the remaining milk, a tablespoon of salt, black pepper, and French spices. Mix well.
  3. Sauté Additional Veggies:
    • In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and pepper and fry for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  4. Assemble the Casserole:
    • In a greased baking dish, layer the precooked potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, and the sautéed leek and peppers.
    • Pour the milk and egg mixture over the vegetables. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly on top.
  5. Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  6. Prepare the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, grated cucumbers, and dill. Mix well to create a refreshing dressing.
  7. Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Spoon some of the cucumber and yogurt dressing over each serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Main Course: Serve this casserole as the centerpiece of a meal, accompanied by a light salad and fresh bread.
  • Side Dish: Complements grilled meats or roasted fish, adding a hearty vegetable component to your plate.
  • Brunch Idea: A great addition to a brunch buffet, offering a savory vegetarian option.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Rich in Fiber: High fiber from vegetables aids digestion.
  • Low-Calorie: Vegetables provide nutrients without many calories.
  • Calcium and Protein: Cheese and milk contribute to your daily protein and calcium intake.

Cooking Tips

  • Vegetable Prep: Ensure all vegetables are cut uniformly for even cooking.
  • Seasoning: Adjust seasoning after mixing to taste, as cheese also adds saltiness.
  • Creamy Top: For a creamier top, mix some cheese into the egg mixture as well as sprinkling on top.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful spices.
  2. Comforting Yet Healthy: Offers the comfort of a baked casserole without excessive calories.
  3. Versatile and Adaptable: Easy to substitute different vegetables based on season or preference.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at gatherings, pleasing vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

This vegetable casserole with creamy cucumber dressing stands out as a versatile and satisfying dish. Whether you’re seeking something special for a family dinner or need a reliable dish for potluck dinners, this casserole satisfies with both its flavor and presentation. The added creamy cucumber dressing provides a refreshing twist, making each bite a delightful experience. Try this recipe for a surefire way to impress and nourish your loved ones.