This Layered Vegetable and Potato Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish, perfect for family dinners. It features layers of thinly sliced potatoes, fresh vegetables, and a creamy egg mixture, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This casserole is not only flavorful but also nutritious, making it a great option for any meal.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 Chinese cabbage, shredded
- 2-3 potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 5-6 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Provencal herbs (or a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 spring onion, chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2-3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1-2 pickled cucumbers, chopped
- Additional 1 clove of garlic, minced
Directions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a large baking dish with a bit of oil or butter.
- Layer the Vegetables:
- Begin by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add a layer of shredded Chinese cabbage, followed by diced bell peppers, chopped spring onions, and sliced tomatoes.
- Add Flavorings:
- Sprinkle the minced garlic and Provencal herbs over the vegetables to infuse the casserole with aromatic flavors as it bakes.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the beaten eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, and another minced clove of garlic. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Pour Over Vegetables:
- Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the layered vegetables in the baking dish.
- Add Final Layers:
- Arrange the remaining potato slices on top of the casserole.
- Spread the tomato sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake:
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes.
- After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with the chopped pickled cucumbers for an added tangy crunch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious juices.
- A side of steamed green beans or asparagus would complement this dish well.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly to ensure they cook through evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more herbs or spices.
- You can substitute Chinese cabbage with regular cabbage or other leafy greens if desired.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chinese cabbage is low in calories and high in vitamins A, C, and K.
- Potatoes are a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
- Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline.
- Mozzarella cheese offers calcium and protein, beneficial for bone health.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients used are gluten-free.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure the mayonnaise and cheese used are suitable for vegetarians.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy layers, and melted cheese makes this casserole irresistible.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, it’s a healthy option for any meal.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe approachable for any home cook.
- Versatile: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or as a meal prep option.
Conclusion:
This Layered Vegetable and Potato Casserole is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this hearty casserole, and share it with family and friends for a meal everyone will love.