This vegetable casserole is a simple and delicious recipe that requires only cutting vegetables! Perfect for quick and easy meals, this dish is packed with a variety of nutritious vegetables and topped with a flavorful cheese and egg mixture.
Ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 small broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon salt (divided)
- 1 leek, sliced
- Olive oil for frying
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 eggs
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 400 ml (1 1/2 cups) milk, divided
- 130 g (1 cup) flour
- Black pepper, to taste
- French spices (such as Herbes de Provence), to taste
- 150 g (1 1/2 cups) cheese, grated (your choice)
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 cucumbers, grated or finely chopped
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Prepare the Vegetables: 2. Peel and slice the potatoes and carrot. Cut the cauliflower and broccoli into florets. Slice the leek and chop the bell pepper.
Blanch the Vegetables: 3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1/2 tablespoon of salt. Blanch the potatoes, carrot, cauliflower, and broccoli for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Leek and Bell Pepper: 4. In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and chopped bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Set aside.
Prepare the Batter: 5. In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add 5 tablespoons of olive oil, half of the milk (200 ml), and mix well. 6. Gradually add the flour, whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in the remaining milk (200 ml) until smooth. Season with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of salt, black pepper, and French spices.
Assemble the Casserole: 7. Grease a large baking dish with olive oil. Layer the blanched potatoes, carrot, cauliflower, and broccoli in the dish. 8. Spread the sautéed leek and bell pepper over the top. 9. Pour the batter evenly over the vegetables. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top.
Bake: 10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the casserole is set.
Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: 11. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and grated or finely chopped cucumbers. Mix well.
Serve: 12. Once the casserole is baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot with the yogurt sauce on the side.
Nutritional Benefits:
This vegetable casserole is not only easy to make but also nutritious. It is loaded with a variety of vegetables that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The eggs and cheese add high-quality protein and calcium, making this dish a well-rounded meal.
Customization Options:
This versatile recipe can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegetarian Version: The recipe is already vegetarian, but you can enhance it further by adding more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Cheese Variations: Use different types of cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or feta for varied flavors.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a nice touch.
Serving Suggestions:
This vegetable casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with some sides to enhance the dining experience:
- Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Bread: Complement the dish with slices of crusty bread or garlic toast.
- Soup: Pair with a bowl of vegetable soup for a hearty meal.
Cooking Tips:
To ensure the best results, follow these cooking tips:
- Blanching: Make sure to blanch the vegetables until they are tender but still firm to maintain their texture during baking.
- Even Layering: Layer the vegetables evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Cheese Melting: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
Leftover Ideas:
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Here are some ideas for using them:
- Reheat and Serve: Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal.
- Casserole Wrap: Wrap the leftover casserole in a tortilla with some fresh spinach and salsa for a tasty wrap.
- Breakfast Hash: Chop the leftovers into small pieces and sauté with additional scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast hash.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This vegetable casserole is a perfect blend of savory flavors and satisfying textures. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners. The combination of tender vegetables, flavorful batter, and melted cheese creates a comforting and hearty dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy vegetables or a delicious casserole recipe, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Additional Tips for Perfecting the Recipe:
- Uniform Chopping: Ensure all vegetables are chopped uniformly for even cooking.
- Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before baking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
This vegetable casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household, offering a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to make and enjoy.