This hearty lentil casserole combines tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and melty mozzarella for a delicious and wholesome dish. Paired with a tangy yogurt sauce, it’s perfect as a main course or side dish for any occasion.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- Water (enough to cook the lentils)
- 500 g (1 lb) leeks, rinsed and chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 zucchini, grated and juice squeezed out
- Olive oil, for frying
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper, to taste
- 3 eggs
- 2–3 tbsp flour
- 10 g (2 tsp) baking powder
- Mozzarella cheese, grated (to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped (2 tbsp)
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
- Rinse the lentils under cold water.
- Add lentils and water to a pot, ensuring the water covers them.
- Cook until tender, about 25–30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add grated carrots and fry for 1–2 minutes.
- Add leeks and zucchini, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooked lentils to the vegetable mixture.
- Stir in tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and red pepper. Cook until the tomato paste’s raw smell disappears.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt.
- Add flour and baking powder to the eggs and mix well.
- Combine the egg mixture with the lentil and vegetable mixture, stirring thoroughly.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Pour the lentil mixture into the dish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt or sour cream, minced garlic, chopped dill, mustard, and salt.
- Stir until smooth and set aside.
Step 6: Finish the Casserole
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve the casserole hot, accompanied by a generous dollop of the yogurt sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
- Enjoy leftovers as a quick and satisfying lunch.
Cooking Tips
- Squeeze out excess water from the zucchini to avoid a watery casserole.
- For added flavor, use smoked paprika or chili flakes in the vegetable mixture.
- Replace mozzarella with cheddar or Gruyere for a different cheesy topping.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lentils: High in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and folate.
- Leeks and Zucchini: Rich in vitamins A and C, and provide antioxidants.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds probiotics and calcium for gut and bone health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free if flour is replaced with a gluten-free alternative
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage
- Store 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
- Packed with nutritious lentils and fresh vegetables.
- A versatile dish that works as a main or side.
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
- Comforting, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Conclusion
This Lentil and Vegetable Casserole with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a wholesome and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavor. Whether served as a main course or a side, it’s sure to satisfy and impress!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of lentils? Yes, green or brown lentils work well but may require slightly longer cooking times.
- Can I add meat? Yes, cooked ground turkey or chicken can be added for extra protein.
- Can I make this dish vegan? Replace eggs with a flax egg and use plant-based yogurt and cheese.
- What if I don’t have leeks? Substitute with onions or green onions.
- How do I keep the casserole from being watery? Ensure zucchini is well-squeezed and lentils are fully drained.
- Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- What cheese works best? Mozzarella provides a mild flavor, but cheddar or Parmesan can be used for a stronger taste.
- Can I skip the sauce? Yes, but the yogurt sauce adds a refreshing tang that complements the dish.
- What can I serve with this? Pair with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy this satisfying and nutritious casserole as a comforting addition to your meal rotation!