This Green Lentil and Leek Vegetable Casserole is a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for a comforting meal. Packed with the goodness of lentils, leeks, and carrots, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this casserole is both satisfying and flavorful. The Greek yogurt and mustard sauce adds a tangy twist, making it a delightful dish for the whole family.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- Lentils: 1 cup (200g)
- Leek: 500g (about 3 cups, chopped)
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Carrots: 2, diced
- Tomato Paste: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Red Pepper: To taste
- Eggs: 3
- Flour: 2-3 tablespoons
- Baking Powder: 10g (2 teaspoons)
- Olive Oil: For frying and greasing
For the Sauce:
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup (100g), shredded
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: 3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Dill: 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Mustard: 1 teaspoon
Directions
- Cook the Lentils:
- In a pot, cook 1 cup of lentils in water until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the chopped leeks and diced carrots, cooking until they soften.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and red pepper to taste. Cook until the raw smell of the tomato paste disappears.
- Add the cooked lentils to the pan, stir well, and let the mixture cool down.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat 3 eggs with a pinch of salt.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of flour and 10g of baking powder. Mix until smooth.
- Combine and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Combine the egg mixture with the lentil and vegetable mixture, stirring thoroughly.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour the mixture into the dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream with 1 minced garlic clove, chopped dill, and 1 teaspoon of mustard. The sauce is ready!
- Add Cheese and Final Bake:
- Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Serve the casserole hot, drizzled with the prepared yogurt sauce.
Additional Information
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread.
- Pair with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a refreshing meal.
- Cooking Tips:
- You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper or add some chili flakes.
- Nutritional Benefits:
- Lentils: Rich in protein, fiber, and iron.
- Leeks and Carrots: Provide vitamins and antioxidants.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds probiotics and calcium.
- Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour.
- Low in Saturated Fat
- Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 6g
- Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- A healthy and satisfying dish that’s packed with nutrients.
- Perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
- The combination of tender lentils, savory leeks, and creamy cheese creates a comforting and flavorful casserole.
- Easy to make and customizable with your favorite vegetables and spices.
Conclusion
This Green Lentil and Leek Vegetable Casserole is a delicious and wholesome dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this casserole is a nutritious and satisfying option. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this delightful casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of lentils?
- Yes, you can use red or brown lentils, but the cooking time may vary.
- Can I make this casserole vegan?
- Yes, use a flax egg substitute and dairy-free cheese and yogurt.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze the casserole before adding the cheese. Thaw and bake with cheese when ready to serve.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would be great additions.
- What can I use instead of mozzarella?
- You can substitute with cheddar, Gouda, or any cheese that melts well.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes, simply use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I skip the sauce?
- The sauce adds a nice tangy flavor, but the casserole will still be delicious without it.
- What can I serve with this casserole?
- Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice.
- Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.