This Creamy Vegetable Casserole is a delightful, nutritious dish featuring a variety of fresh vegetables, all baked together with a creamy, cheesy topping. Perfect as a main course or side dish, it is sure to please any crowd.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis
- 1 teaspoon salt (for zucchini)
- 2 small onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing the baking dish)
- 2 fluid ounces (60 milliliters) cooking cream
- 1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 3 eggs
- 8 ounces (240 grams) sour cream
- 3 tablespoons flour
- A small bunch of parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, grated
- 10 cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces (240 grams) soft cheese, grated
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Slice off the ends of the zucchinis, then slice them into rings.
- Cut the rings into strips and place them in a bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and stir well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
- Let the zucchini sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the 2 small onions finely.
- Peel and chop the carrot.
- Chop the green and red bell peppers.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 2 minutes until they turn translucent.
- Add the chopped carrot and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped green and red bell peppers, stir well, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Squeeze the zucchini to remove more liquid and add them to the pan.
- Pour in 2 fluid ounces (60 milliliters) of cooking cream.
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of oregano.
- Stir and cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and spread it evenly.
- Transfer the cooked vegetables to the baking dish and spread them evenly.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture:
- In a bowl, break 3 eggs and add 8 ounces (240 grams) of sour cream. Whisk until smooth.
- Add 3 tablespoons of flour and mix well.
- Chop a small bunch of parsley finely and grate 3 cloves of garlic.
- Add the parsley and garlic to the egg mixture and mix well.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the egg and cream mixture over the vegetables in the baking dish.
- Slice 10 cherry tomatoes and place them on top of the casserole.
- Grate 8 ounces (240 grams) of soft cheese and sprinkle it on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 360°F (180°C).
- Bake the casserole for 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Creamy Vegetable Casserole!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to avoid a watery casserole.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before baking.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C.
- Carrots provide beta-carotene and fiber.
- Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Cheese adds calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and a creamy, cheesy topping.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this dish easy to prepare.
- Versatile: Perfect for any meal of the day and great for leftovers.
- Healthy: A nutritious choice filled with vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Vegetable Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this nutritious casserole warm, straight from the oven!