Broccoli and cauliflower with ham in the oven

Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake with Ham

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Who said vegetables are boring? This broccoli and cauliflower bake with ham will turn any meal into a culinary celebration! With a delicious combination of fresh vegetables, juicy ham, and a layer of melted cheese, you'll discover that healthy food can be incredibly tasty. Whether served warm or cold, this recipe will delight your taste buds, and friends and family will be asking for more!

A Brief Story

This recipe has its roots in cooking traditions where vegetables were often combined with various types of meat to create nutritious and flavorful dishes. The idea of gratinizing vegetables with ham and cheese arose from the desire to add a touch of richness and flavor, transforming a simple vegetable platter into a main course worthy of any festive meal.

Ingredients

- 1 small cauliflower
- 1 head of broccoli
- 300 g young carrots
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper
- 400 g chicken ham (or other types of ham, such as smoked pork or bacon)
- 3 green garlic stalks
- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
- 200 g mozzarella cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Vegetables

Start by breaking the cauliflower and broccoli into small florets. This will not only make them easier to cook but will also allow the flavors to penetrate better.

- Tip: Choose fresh vegetables with green leaves and compact florets for the best results.

Bring a pot of water to a boil, add salt and a little sugar. Blanch the cauliflower and broccoli florets along with the peeled and sliced carrots for 5 minutes.

2. Cooling and Draining the Vegetables

After 5 minutes, drain the vegetables and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential for maintaining the vibrant color of the vegetables.

3. Preparing the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Then add the flour, sour cream, salt, and pepper (if desired) and mix well until you achieve a smooth batter.

- Trick: Make sure the sour cream is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the egg mixture.

4. Assembling the Dish

Grease a baking dish with butter and coat it with breadcrumbs. Place the broccoli and cauliflower florets along with the carrots at the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the egg mixture over the vegetables.

Add the diced bell peppers, minced garlic, and sliced ham. Cover with the remaining egg mixture.

5. Finishing the Dish

Grate the mozzarella cheese on top for a delicious golden crust at the end.

6. Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the dish for about 20 minutes, or until it is golden brown and cooked through.

Serving

This dish can be served warm or cold, alongside a dollop of yogurt or sour cream. It's perfect for quick lunches or light dinners, and if you're looking for a heartier meal, it can be paired with a fresh salad.

Variations

- Vegan: Substitute the ham with marinated tofu and the cheese with a nut mix or vegan cheese.
- Add spices: You can experiment with herbs like oregano or basil to add extra flavor.
- Vegetable mix: Instead of broccoli and cauliflower, you can use other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.

Nutritional Values

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. It also contains protein from the eggs and ham, making it a balanced meal. An estimated serving contains around 350-400 calories, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! You can replace the ham with chicken, turkey, or even a combination of different meats.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it is a healthy recipe packed with nutrients, and its pleasant taste will be appreciated by little ones.

How can I store leftovers?
The dish can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pair With

For a complete meal, you can pair this dish with a seasonal salad or a glass of dry white wine. Additionally, fresh lemonade or herbal tea will perfectly accompany this dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put this delicious recipe into practice. Enjoy every bite and share the joy of cooking with your loved ones!