Auntie’s Vegetable Casserole

🥦🍅🧀 Auntie’s Vegetable Casserole 🍲

Auntie’s Vegetable Casserole is a delightful, heartwarming dish that has been a beloved part of family gatherings for generations. This casserole is a comforting and delicious way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables combined with a creamy, cheesy sauce.

📜 History:
The history of Auntie’s Vegetable Casserole is a bit of a family secret, passed down through the generations. It likely originated from a desire to create a delicious and nutritious dish that could be made with readily available ingredients. Over time, it became a staple at family reunions, potlucks, and holiday dinners, loved for its taste and simplicity.

🥘 Components:

• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 2 cups of cauliflower florets
• 2 cups of sliced carrots
• 1 cup of diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of paprika

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and peas. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set them aside.

3. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir in the sautéed onions and garlic.

5. In your prepared baking dish, layer the blanched vegetables evenly.

6. Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the vegetables, ensuring it’s spread out evenly.

7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.

8. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s golden and bubbly.

9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

⏰ Time:
Auntie’s Vegetable Casserole takes approximately 1 hour to prepare, including the time for chopping and baking.

This delightful casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, and it’s sure to become a beloved dish just like it has been in Auntie’s family for generations. Enjoy! 😊🍽️👩‍🍳🥕🧀🥦🍅

Certainly, here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Auntie’s Vegetable Casserole:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 9g
• Vitamin D: 6% DV
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 4% DV
• Potassium: 15% DV

Health Information:

1. Rich in Vegetables: Auntie’s Vegetable Casserole is packed with a variety of vegetables, including broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers. These veggies provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

2. Calcium: The cheese in this casserole contributes to its calcium content, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

3. Protein: This casserole contains a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for cell repair and growth.

4. Moderate Calories: With around 280 calories per serving, this casserole can be part of a balanced meal when served in appropriate portions.

5. Saturated Fat: Be mindful of the saturated fat content, which comes from the cheese and mayonnaise. Consuming saturated fat in moderation is advisable for heart health.

6. Sodium: The casserole contains sodium, which should be monitored for those with hypertension or on a low-sodium diet.

7. Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables in this casserole provide various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

8. Dietary Fiber: The fiber content from the vegetables and other ingredients can aid digestion and help you feel full.

As with any dish, moderation is key to a balanced diet. While Auntie’s Vegetable Casserole is a delicious and nutritious choice, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and your overall dietary needs. Adjusting the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences, such as using low-fat cheese or mayonnaise, can also make this casserole a healthier option if desired. Enjoy in a balanced and varied diet! 🥦🧀🥕🥗