Gratinated vegetable stew

Gratinated Vegetable Dish: A Delight for Your Taste Buds

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Our culinary journey begins with a simple yet incredibly tasty recipe that brings together seasonal vegetables in a gratin dish. This gratinated vegetable dish is perfect for transforming ordinary ingredients into something truly special. Cauliflower and zucchini, perhaps not the most popular vegetables, will shine in this dish, and the final result is a combination of flavors that is sure to delight the whole family.

Let's explore the steps, ingredients, and some practical tips to achieve a perfect result!

Ingredients

- 1 small cauliflower (approximately 500 g)
- 1 small zucchini
- 1 onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons of homemade broth
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh dill, chopped
- 2 eggs
- 100 g grated cheese

Preparation of the Gratinated Vegetable Dish

Step 1: Preparing the Cauliflower

We start by breaking the cauliflower into small florets. Then, we place the cauliflower florets in a pot of boiling water with a little salt. We blanch the cauliflower for 8-10 minutes until it becomes slightly tender, but we should not let it get too soft. After blanching, we drain the water and set the cauliflower aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Finely chop the onion and garlic and add them to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its aromas, about 3-4 minutes. Then, cut the zucchini into small cubes and add it over the onion and garlic.

Practical Tips: Use fresh zucchini, as it will provide better flavor and less water. You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for extra color and nutrients.

Step 3: Preparing the Sauce

Add a few tablespoons of water to the skillet and let the zucchini simmer for about 5 minutes. When the zucchini is tender, add the broth, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce reduce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to intensify the flavors.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

In a baking dish, start by placing a layer of zucchini with sauce. On top, arrange the cauliflower florets. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix them with the grated cheese, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the vegetables, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.

Sprinkle some freshly chopped dill on top for added flavor.

Step 5: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is nicely browned. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't burn.

Serving and Variations

This gratinated vegetable dish is delicious both warm and cold, making it a perfect choice for quick lunches or dinners. You can serve it alongside a fresh green salad or with a slice of crusty bread.

Variations: You can experiment with different cheeses instead of the grated cheese, such as brie or mozzarella. You can also add some olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean touch. If you want an even heartier dish, you can add some pieces of chicken or tofu to the vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the cauliflower and zucchini, which are excellent sources of antioxidants. Cauliflower contains vitamin C, vitamin K, and folic acid, while zucchini brings vitamin A and fiber. It is a low-calorie dish, ideal for a balanced diet.

Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the dish.

Is this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of lentil flour or a vegan egg substitute.

How can I store leftovers?
You can keep the gratinated vegetable dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It is just as tasty when reheated!

So, give this gratinated vegetable dish a try! It is a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy, and don't forget to share your impressions of this delicious combination of vegetables!