Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 4 large eggs
• 100 ml cream (heavy cream or double cream)
• 3 tbsp flour
• Dill, finely chopped (to taste)
• Parsley, finely chopped (to taste)
• 1 eggplant, sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Dried garlic, to taste
• Paprika, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, grated or finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 200 grams mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 100 grams cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese), grated

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 2 tbsp yogurt (Greek yogurt is preferred for thickness)
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 pickled cucumber, finely chopped

Steps to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Start by preparing all the vegetables. Slice the eggplant into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. Place them on a paper towel and sprinkle with a little salt to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat them dry.
2. Dice the onion and garlic. Grate the carrot and dice the bell pepper and tomato. Slice the mushrooms into thin pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the carrot, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook until the vegetables begin to soften and the mushrooms release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the eggplant and continue to cook until it begins to soften, about 10-12 minutes. Season the vegetables with salt, dried garlic, and paprika to taste. Finally, add the tomato and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomato softens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Add the pickled cucumber for an extra burst of tangy flavor.
2. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or a pinch of dried garlic, if desired.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 eggs and whisk them together with the 100 ml cream and 3 tbsp flour. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt, paprika, and chopped dill and parsley. The flour helps thicken the mixture and gives it a creamy consistency once baked.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a greased casserole dish, layer the cooked vegetable mixture. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
4. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve with a dollop of the creamy garlic sauce on the side or drizzled over the top for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

This recipe serves about 4 people. The approximate nutritional information per serving is as follows:

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Calcium: 150mg
• Vitamin A: 7500 IU (from the vegetables)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can use any cheese you like in this casserole. Cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda work particularly well for a melty, rich topping. Vegan cheese options also work if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, just place it in the oven and follow the baking instructions. You may need to bake it for a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can customize the vegetables in this casserole. Zucchini, spinach, or broccoli would all be great additions. Just ensure that the vegetables are cooked until tender before adding them to the casserole dish.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes! To make the casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Tips for Making the Best Vegetable and Eggplant Casserole

• Eggplant Tips: Eggplant can absorb a lot of oil when cooking, so be sure to slice it and let it sit with salt to remove some of the moisture. This helps the eggplant cook faster and prevents it from becoming soggy.
• Sautéing Vegetables: Take your time when cooking the vegetables. Sautéing them until they are soft and slightly caramelized adds depth of flavor to the casserole.
• Creamy Consistency: If you prefer a richer texture, add more cream or yogurt to the egg mixture, or try adding a splash of milk for a slightly lighter result.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs. Basil, thyme, or oregano would all work wonderfully in this dish, depending on your taste preferences.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Freezing: This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

This Vegetable and Eggplant Casserole with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious, comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with savory vegetables, eggs, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The creamy garlic sauce adds an extra layer of tang and richness, making each bite even more satisfying. Enjoy this wholesome, nutritious casserole on its own or serve it with a side salad for a complete meal. Happy cooking!