Looking for a wholesome and tasty dish to enjoy over the weekend? This broccoli and cauliflower casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With the addition of rice and carrots, it makes a perfect all-in-one meal that’s easy to prepare. Here’s how you can make this nutritious casserole at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of rice (white or brown, depending on your preference)

  • 2 cups of broccoli florets

  • 2 cups of cauliflower florets

  • 1 cup of sliced carrots

  • 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth

  • 1 cup of grated cheese (cheddar or your favorite type)

  • 1/2 cup of milk (or a dairy-free alternative)

  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Rice

  • In a medium pot, cook the rice according to the package instructions using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. Once cooked, set aside.

3. Prepare the Vegetables

  • While the rice is cooking, steam the broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots until they are tender but still crisp. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

4. Sauté Onion and Garlic

  • In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed vegetables, sautéed onion, and garlic. Mix well.

6. Make the Sauce

  • In a small bowl, mix the milk and half of the grated cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour this mixture over the rice and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.

7. Assemble the Casserole

  • Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

8. Bake the Casserole

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

9. Garnish and Serve

  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Benefits of This Casserole

  • Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots.

  • Balanced Meal: Provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.

  • Easy to Prepare: Simple steps and readily available ingredients make this a convenient dish for any weekend.

Conclusion

This broccoli and cauliflower casserole is a perfect dish to enjoy every weekend. It’s nutritious, delicious, and easy to make. The combination of fresh vegetables, rice, and cheese creates a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Try this recipe and make it a staple in your weekend meal planning. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the health benefits that come with it!

Happy cooking!