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Vibrant Rainbow Vegetable Gratin

Irresistibly Creamy Vibrant Rainbow Vegetable Gratin Recipe

A colorful and nourishing dish with layers of vegetables, creamy cheese sauce, and crunchy breadcrumbs, perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Dish
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Gratin

  • 2 medium Zucchini Adds moisture and mild flavor
  • 2 cups Bell Peppers (red, yellow, green) Any color can be used based on preference
  • 2 medium Carrots Use baby carrots for quicker prep
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets Can substitute with cauliflower
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Use grape tomatoes if preferred
  • 1 medium Onion Can substitute with shallots
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh or dried can be used
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can substitute with butter
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Fresh thyme is a great substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Can substitute with Italian seasoning blend
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (or plant-based cream) Can use milk for a lighter version
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or vegan alternative) Experiment with different cheeses
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) Can skip for a dairy-free version
  • 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (optional) Can be omitted for a milder flavor
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs (panko or regular) Can substitute with crushed crackers or nuts
  • to taste Fresh Herbs (for garnish) Parsley or basil both work well

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the ingredients.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent. Stir in zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, seasoning with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
  • Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, whisk together a tablespoon of flour and a splash of heavy cream over medium heat until smooth. Gradually add the remaining cream, stirring continuously until thickened. Remove from heat, then mix in shredded cheese, Parmesan (if using), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Assemble the Gratin: Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly in a greased baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the veggies, ensuring they are well coated.
  • Add the Topping: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and optional Parmesan. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top for that irresistible crunch.
  • Bake the Gratin: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
  • Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving warm. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Notes

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction for extra flavor. Cool before serving to help it set perfectly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 390mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Crowd-Pleaser, healthy meal, Hearty Dish, Seasonal Produce, Vegetable Gratin, Vibrant Rainbow Vegetable Gratin
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