Imagine a dish that transforms simple vegetables into a luxurious, creamy masterpiece – golden, bubbling, and irresistibly delicious. This Mixed Vegetable Gratin is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of seasonal vegetables bathed in a rich, velvety béchamel sauce and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or when you need a little comfort on a plate, this gratin will become an instant favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Vegetable Gratin
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 small broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 30g butter / 2 tablespoons
- 30g all-purpose flour / 1/4 cup
- 500ml milk / 2 cups
- 150g grated cheese (Gruyère, Cheddar, or Comté) / 1 1/2 cups
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of grated nutmeg
- 1 garlic clove (optional)
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and prepare carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower.
- Cut vegetables into uniform, small florets.
- Steam or boil in salted water for 8-10 minutes until tender but still firm.
- Drain thoroughly and set aside.
2. Create the Béchamel Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring continuously until sauce thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add crushed garlic if desired for extra flavor.
3. Assemble the Gratin
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F, gas mark 6).
- Arrange prepared vegetables in a gratin dish.
- Pour béchamel sauce evenly over vegetables.
- Sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
- Optional: Top with breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
4. Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- The top should be beautifully caramelized and cheese melted.
Cooking and Nutrition Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 280-320 calories
Why This Vegetable Gratin Is a Nutritional Champion
This gratin is not just delicious – it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Broccoli and cauliflower are cruciferous vegetables packed with vitamins, minerals, and cancer-fighting compounds. Carrots provide beta-carotene for eye health, while the calcium-rich cheese and milk offer bone-strengthening nutrients. It’s a perfect way to enjoy vegetables in a truly indulgent format.
Pro Tips
- Choose seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition.
- Use high-quality cheese for maximum flavor.
- For a lighter version, use half milk, half vegetable broth.
- Can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
Delicious Variations
- Swap vegetables based on seasonal availability
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth
- Experiment with different cheese combinations
- Include some roasted nuts on top for added crunch
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a stunning side dish with roasted meats
- Enjoy as a vegetarian main course
- Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and special occasions
Elevate your dining experience with this golden, creamy vegetable gratin that turns simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece!