This hearty vegetable casserole is a delightful and nutritious dish, perfect for a family dinner or as a healthy side. Packed with fresh vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and carrots, and combined with a rich and cheesy egg mixture, this casserole offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s versatile and can be served on its own or paired with a variety of main courses. Plus, the tangy sauce made from Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 5 eggs: Provides structure and richness to the casserole.
• Salt, to taste: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Black pepper, to taste: Adds a bit of heat and depth.
• 60 ml milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the ingredients.
• 5 tablespoons flour: Helps bind the casserole together, giving it a nice texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds lightness and helps the casserole rise.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds flavor and helps sauté the vegetables.
• 1 broccoli, cut into florets: Adds a slight crunch and a nutritious boost.
• 1 small cabbage, shredded: Adds a mild sweetness and bulk to the casserole.
• 1 carrot, grated: Adds color, sweetness, and additional nutrients.
• 2 onions, chopped: Adds depth and a sweet-savory flavor.
• Fresh dill, chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly tangy flavor.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, herbaceous note.
• 250 grams mozzarella cheese, grated: Adds creaminess and a cheesy flavor that ties the casserole together.

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise: Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
• Fresh dill, chopped: Adds a fresh herbal flavor.
• Lemon juice, to taste: Adds a bright, acidic note to balance the richness.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds a bit of pungency and depth to the sauce.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Begin by prepping the vegetables. Cut the broccoli into small florets, shred the cabbage, grate the carrot, and chop the onions. Fresh dill and parsley should also be chopped at this stage. Prepping everything in advance makes the cooking process smoother and faster.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. Add the grated carrot, shredded cabbage, and broccoli florets. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still retain some crunch. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. The flour and baking powder will help give the casserole a nice, light texture, while the milk and eggs create a custard-like consistency that binds everything together.
4. Combine and Assemble:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In the bowl with the egg mixture, add the sautéed vegetables, chopped dill, and parsley. Mix until everything is evenly coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the grated mozzarella cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed across the top for a cheesy, golden crust.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can check doneness by inserting a knife or skewer into the center—if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
6. Prepare the Sauce:
   • While the casserole is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, chopped dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir until well combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if needed. This sauce will add a refreshing, tangy contrast to the rich casserole.
7. Serve:
   • Once the casserole is slightly cooled, cut it into portions and serve it with a generous dollop of the yogurt-dill sauce on top or on the side. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Possible Questions:

• Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a different flavor profile.
• Can I add meat to this casserole? Absolutely! Cooked chicken, turkey, or ham would be great additions to this casserole for added protein.
• What if I don’t have fresh herbs? You can use dried herbs in place of fresh ones. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third the amount.
• How can I make this dish gluten-free? To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.

Tips:

• Pre-Cooking the Vegetables: Sautéing the vegetables before baking helps to bring out their natural flavors and ensures they are tender in the final dish. This step also reduces the baking time.
• Even Baking: Ensure the casserole is spread evenly in the baking dish to allow for uniform baking. A flat, even surface will help the casserole cook evenly and prevent undercooked or overcooked spots.
• Customizing the Dish: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 320-350 kcal
• Protein: 15-18g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 15-18g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sugar: 5-6g

Conclusion:

This vegetable casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a hearty side. The combination of broccoli, cabbage, and carrots provides a range of nutrients, while the eggs and cheese add richness and flavor. Paired with a refreshing yogurt-dill sauce, this casserole is a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even as a dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the comforting taste of home-cooked goodness with every bite!