Ingredients:

Vegetables:

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 ¾ cup (200g) mushrooms, chopped
• 1 medium zucchini, cut into small pieces
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper mixture, to taste
• 1 cup (100g) cherry tomatoes, chopped
• 1 small cucumber, grated
• Fresh dill, chopped

Egg Mixture:

• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup (200g) sour cream
• Salt, to taste

Topping:

• ¾ cup (100g) cheese, grated
• ¼ cup (60g) sour cream
• 3 tbsp (40g) mayonnaise
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper mixture, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped

Making It Step by Step:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Start by prepping all the vegetables. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and set them aside. Chop the onion, grate the carrot, chop the mushrooms, and cut the zucchini into small pieces. Grate the cucumber and chop the cherry tomatoes. Finally, chop the fresh dill finely.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent. Next, add the grated carrot and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it softens. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become slightly browned.
   • Add the cauliflower florets and zucchini pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and a mixture of pepper to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still have some bite. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Combine the Egg Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until well combined. Season with salt to taste. This mixture will act as the binder for the vegetables, holding everything together while baking.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In a large baking dish, combine the cooked vegetables with the egg mixture. Add the chopped cherry tomatoes, grated cucumber, and fresh dill. Mix everything gently until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the egg mixture.
5. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the grated cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped garlic, salt, and pepper mixture. Mix until smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy, cheesy topping that makes the casserole irresistible.
6. Add the Topping and Bake:
   • Spread the cheese and sour cream mixture evenly over the top of the vegetable and egg mixture in the baking dish. Make sure the entire surface is covered with the topping.
   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. The cheese should be melted and slightly bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh dill, if desired. Serve warm as a main dish or a hearty side. It pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Cooking Tips:

• Vegetable Preparation: Make sure to cut the vegetables into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking. If the vegetables are too large, they may not cook through properly in the given time.
• Egg Mixture Consistency: The egg mixture should be well whisked and smooth to ensure it binds the vegetables properly. Adding a pinch of flour or cornstarch can help thicken the mixture if needed.
• Cheese Choice: Use a combination of cheeses for more depth of flavor. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda work well in this recipe. For a sharper flavor, try adding a bit of Parmesan or Gruyère.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill add a burst of flavor to the casserole. You can also experiment with other herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil.
• Cooking Time: The baking time may vary depending on the size and depth of your baking dish. If the top is browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil and continue baking until the casserole is fully set.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until heated through.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Vitamin C: 35% of the daily recommended intake

FAQs:

1. Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
   • Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, broccoli, spinach, or sweet potatoes.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, and then bake as directed.
3. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can substitute the sour cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and dairy-free cheese shreds. Use plant-based mayonnaise and unsweetened almond or soy yogurt in place of sour cream.
4. What can I serve with this casserole?
   • This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a side of crusty bread, a light salad, or steamed rice.
5. Can I use pre-cooked vegetables?
   • Yes, if you have leftover cooked vegetables, you can use them in this recipe. Just be mindful that the texture may be softer, and you may need to adjust the baking time.
6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   • Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or place the whole casserole back in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through.

Conclusion:

This Vegetable Casserole with Egg and Cheese Topping is a delicious, nutritious dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Its blend of fresh vegetables and creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The casserole is not only flavorful but also versatile, allowing you to use up any vegetables you have on hand. Whether served as a hearty main dish or a savory side, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its rich flavor, comforting texture, and vibrant colors, this casserole brings a delightful twist to your table. Enjoy the combination of wholesome ingredients in this healthy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a special brunch. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!