Ingredients

• Olive oil (for cooking)
• 2 large zucchini, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 carrot, grated
• 300 grams mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 400 grams cream
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 100 grams cheese, grated (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
• Salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and slice the zucchini: Rinse the zucchini under cool water, then slice them into thin rounds. You can choose to leave the skin on for added nutrients and color.
2. Chop the onion and garlic: Finely chop the onion and, if using, mince the garlic.
3. Grate the carrot: Use a grater to shred the carrot into fine pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the zucchini and carrot: Add the sliced zucchini and grated carrot to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
3. Incorporate mushrooms and tomato: Add the sliced mushrooms and diced tomato to the skillet. Sauté for another 5 minutes, until the mushrooms release their moisture and the mixture becomes fragrant.
4. Season the vegetables: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and nutmeg over the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

1. Add butter and flour: Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the butter. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter and mix to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
2. Stir in the cream: Gradually pour in the cream while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Transfer to a baking dish: Once the sauce has thickened, pour the creamy vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the oven: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
2. Garnish with parsley: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Cooking Tips

• Choose fresh vegetables: Opt for fresh, seasonal zucchini, mushrooms, and other vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
• Customize with herbs: Feel free to add herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to enhance the flavor profile.
• Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, ground turkey, or beans to the mixture before baking.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

This creamy zucchini casserole is a great source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables used. It’s rich in flavor and can be a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda, feta, or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! This recipe is versatile, so you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus according to your taste and preference.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten the dish, consider using low-fat cream or milk instead of regular cream, and reduce the amount of cheese on top.

Is it necessary to peel the zucchini?

No, it is not necessary to peel the zucchini. The skin adds color and nutrients to the dish, but you can peel it if you prefer a softer texture.

Conclusion

This creamy zucchini casserole is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the goodness of vegetables. The rich cream sauce, combined with sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots, creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side or a main course, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself preparing this dish again and again!