Are you looking for a delicious and easy side dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or even a cozy Sunday brunch. This recipe for a versatile side dish casserole is not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly simple to make. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will help you create a truly memorable meal. Get ready to dive into a world of cheesy, creamy, and utterly satisfying side dishes!
Creamy Roasted Vegetable and Goat Cheese Casserole
This recipe is a celebration of fresh, roasted vegetables, complemented by the tangy bite of goat cheese and a hint of herbs. It's the perfect side to roast chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty steak. This healthy meal option is also a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 2 cups)
- 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step makes a big difference!
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Roast the vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash, bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and garlic with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Don't overcrowd the pan; roasting in a single layer ensures even cooking.
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Assemble the casserole: While the vegetables are roasting, lightly grease a small (8x8 inch) casserole dish. Using a nonstick spray is a great tip here.
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Layer and bake: Transfer the roasted vegetables to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the vegetables, followed by the Parmesan cheese.
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Bake again: Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This simple touch adds a pop of freshness and color.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results:
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetables before roasting.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of goat cheese to your liking.
- To make this a complete meal, add cooked quinoa or lentils to the casserole before baking.
Variations:
- Add protein: Include cooked chicken, chickpeas, or sausage for a heartier casserole.
- Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or a blend of cheddar and Gruyere.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Ensure all your ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious side dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!