Bring a touch of comfort to your dining table with this Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole. This dish blends the hearty, earthy flavors of cauliflower and broccoli with the creamy richness of provolone cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s an ideal side dish for family dinners or a satisfying light meal on its own, especially on chilly evenings.
About the Dish:
This casserole combines the nutritional benefits of cauliflower and broccoli—two powerhouse vegetables known for their health benefits—with the indulgent taste of melted cheese and a tangy mustard base. The result is a deliciously creamy and savory dish that appeals to both children and adults. It’s simple to prepare and can be easily adjusted to include your favorite herbs or spices for a personalized touch.
Ingredients:
- Olive oil spray
- ⅛ cup whole grain mustard
- ¾ cup water, divided
- 3 cups cauliflower florets
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 yellow onion, minced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil spray.
- Mix Mustard and Water:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole grain mustard and 1/4 cup of water until well combined.
- Microwave Cauliflower:
- Place the cauliflower florets and the remaining 1/2 cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave on high for 5 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender. Drain the water.
- Combine Vegetables:
- Add the steamed cauliflower, raw broccoli florets, and minced onion to the mustard mixture.
- Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the mustard mixture.
- Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Transfer the coated vegetables to the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- Scrape any remaining mustard mixture from the bowl over the vegetables.
- Top with Cheese and Oil:
- Lay the slices of provolone cheese over the vegetables to cover them completely.
- Spray a light coating of olive oil over the cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Switch the oven to broil and broil for 1-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving warm.
Expert Tips:
- Vegetable Prep: Ensure that both the cauliflower and broccoli are cut into similar-sized florets for even cooking.
- Flavor Enhancements: For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika into the mustard mixture.
- Cheese Variations: While provolone cheese provides a smooth melt, you can experiment with other cheeses such as sharp cheddar or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs beautifully with a protein such as grilled chicken or a hearty grain like quinoa for a more filling meal.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble this casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Conclusion:
This Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a new addition to your holiday menu or just want a warm, cheesy dish to brighten a weekday dinner, this casserole is sure to delight. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and cheesy goodness that this recipe brings to your table.
