Gratinated Vegetables

Gratinated Vegetables: a Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 70 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world full of quick and additive-laden dishes, gratinated vegetables are an excellent choice for a healthy and comforting meal. This simple recipe brings together a variety of vegetables, enriched with eggs and cheese, for a delicious and nutritious final result. Besides being a versatile recipe, it can be adapted according to everyone's preferences by adding or substituting ingredients.

The history of gratinated vegetables spans centuries, being a simple and effective method to prepare vegetables to enhance their flavor and texture. Whether we enjoy them as a side dish or a main course, they are always an inspired choice.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 zucchini
- 1 eggplant
- 2 carrots
- 4 medium potatoes
- 6 broccoli florets
- 4 eggs
- 200 g grated cheese
- Olive oil (or any preferred oil), to taste
- Salt, pepper, and thyme, to preference
- 1 cup of water

Practical tips for ingredients:
- Choose fresh vegetables: their taste will significantly influence the final flavor of the dish.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as cauliflower or bell pepper, to add variety.
- If you want to reduce calories, you can use low-fat cheese.
- Ham is optional but adds extra flavor; you can also use bacon or turkey ham for a healthier version.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
- Start by peeling the vegetables. This will not only make them easier to digest but will also improve the aesthetic appearance of the dish.
- Rinse the vegetables under cold running water to remove any impurities and dust.

2. Cutting the vegetables:
- Cut the zucchini, eggplant, carrots, and potatoes into large cubes, and the broccoli into florets. Ensure the sizes are relatively uniform to ensure even baking.

3. Arranging in the baking tray:
- Place the cut vegetables in a baking tray. You can layer them for a more appealing look.
- Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, then add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. These spices will enhance the flavor of the vegetables.

4. Initial baking:
- Add a cup of water to the tray, cover it with aluminum foil, and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let the vegetables bake for an hour so they become tender and aromatic.

5. Preparing the egg mixture:
- After the vegetables have baked, remove the tray from the oven and take off the aluminum foil. Now it's time to prepare the egg mixture.
- Beat the four eggs in a large bowl, then add the grated cheese. Mix well to achieve a uniform composition.

6. Finalizing the dish:
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the baked vegetables. Make sure to cover all the vegetables evenly to achieve a delicious crust.
- Place the tray back in the oven, without foil, and let it bake for another 10 minutes. You will notice how the cheese melts and forms a golden and appetizing crust.

7. Serving:
- After the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before portioning. This will help stabilize the vegetables and make serving easier.
- You can serve the gratinated vegetables alongside a fresh salad or with a slice of crusty bread. A glass of white wine or tomato juice would perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits:
Gratinated vegetables are not only delicious but also extremely nutritious. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zucchini and eggplant provide essential fiber, carrots are rich in beta-carotene, and broccoli is an important source of vitamin C. Eggs bring quality protein, while cheese offers calcium and healthy fats.

Calories:
On average, a serving of gratinated vegetables contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and oil used. This makes this dish an excellent choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess water in the tray.

- Can I prepare gratinated vegetables in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and then place it in the oven before serving. They can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days.

- Is it possible to use vegan eggs?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of chickpea flour and water or with a plant-based egg substitute.

Possible variations:
- You can add olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enrich the flavor of the dish.
- If you want a spicier version, add a bit of chili or smoked paprika to the vegetable mix.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to achieve a different taste.

This gratinated vegetable recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of diverse flavors and textures, making it perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Enjoy it with pleasure and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!