This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole with Pears is a delightful and unique dish that combines the rich flavors of potatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, and sweet pears with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this casserole is both nutritious and delicious.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 800g potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling vegetables)
- Olive oil for frying
- 1 pear, sliced
- 1 carrot, diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 500 ml (2 cups) vegetable or chicken stock
- 100 ml (1/2 cup) milk
- A pinch of basil
- French herbs, to taste
- 100g (1/2 cup) mozzarella cheese, grated
Instructions:
- Prep and Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
- Add the chopped potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli florets. Cook for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Pear:
- Heat some olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced pear and fry until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same pan, add a little more olive oil and the diced carrot. Sauté until slightly soft.
- Add butter and let it melt, then stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook over low heat for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Season with salt, black pepper, basil, and French herbs. Continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large baking dish, layer the boiled potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli.
- Scatter the fried pears over the vegetables.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese across the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this casserole as a main dish with a side salad or garlic bread.
- It can also be a hearty side dish for grilled meats or fish.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the vegetables are not overcooked during the boiling step to maintain their texture.
- The roux should be cooked well to avoid any raw flour taste in the sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes, Cauliflower, and Broccoli: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Pears: Add a touch of natural sweetness and are a good source of dietary fiber.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and stock.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The combination of savory vegetables and sweet pears with a creamy, cheesy sauce is irresistible.
- It’s a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal.
- Easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole with Pears is a unique and flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious casserole with your loved ones!