Healthy and Delicious Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin Recipe

This healthy and delicious cauliflower and broccoli gratin is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask you for the recipe. Packed with nutritious vegetables and a creamy bechamel sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make every week. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower and Broccoli:

Cauliflower: 1 (approx. 800g), cut into florets
Broccoli: 1 (approx. 200g), cut into florets

Water: Enough to cover the cauliflower and broccoli
Salt: To taste
Onion: 1 medium, chopped

Pumpkin: 250g, peeled, seeded, and cubed
Oil: 2 tablespoons
Grated Cheese: To taste (amount and variety to your liking)

For the Bechamel Sauce:

Olive Oil: 30g (3 tablespoons)
All-Purpose Flour: 30g (3 tablespoons)
Milk: 300ml (1+1/5 cups)

Reserved Cooking Water: 300ml (1+1/5 cups) from cauliflower and broccoli
Freshly Ground Pepper: To taste
Grated Nutmeg: To taste

Salt: To taste

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower and Broccoli

Wash and Cut: Wash the cauliflower and broccoli and cut them into florets.
Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add salt to taste, and bring to a boil.

Cook Veggies: Cook the cauliflower and broccoli for about 5-7 minutes, until tender but still firm. Drain them, reserving 300ml of the cooking water.

The Pumpkin

Peel and Cube: Peel the pumpkin and cut it into cubes.
Chop Onion: Chop the onion into small pieces.

Sauté: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan and sauté the onion until transparent.
Cook Pumpkin: Add the pumpkin and cook until tender.

Prepare the Bechamel Sauce

Heat Oil: In a saucepan, heat 30g of olive oil over medium heat.

Add Flour: Add 30g of flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden.
Add Liquids: Gradually incorporate the milk and reserved cooking water, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Thicken: Cook the bechamel sauce until it thickens.

Season: Season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and grated nutmeg to taste.

Assemble the Dish

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Layer Vegetables: In a baking dish, place a layer of cooked cauliflower and broccoli.

Add Pumpkin Mixture: Spread the pumpkin and onion mixture over the vegetables.
Pour Bechamel: Pour the bechamel sauce on top, making sure to cover evenly.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese to taste.

Bake

Bake: Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Rest and Serve: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Enjoy: Enjoy this delicious cauliflower and broccoli gratin with bechamel sauce.

Tips for Success

Don’t Overcook Veggies: Ensure the cauliflower and broccoli are cooked until just tender to maintain a nice texture.
Whisk Continuously: When making the bechamel sauce, whisk continuously to prevent lumps.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors.

Health Benefits

This gratin is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients:

High in Fiber: Cauliflower, broccoli, and pumpkin are excellent sources of dietary fiber.
Rich in Vitamins: The vegetables provide vitamins A, C, and K.

Calcium and Protein: Cheese and bechamel sauce add calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can substitute or add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk, use vegan cheese, and replace the bechamel sauce with a vegan alternative.

What can I serve with this gratin?

Serve this gratin with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or as a side dish to grilled meats.

Conclusion

This cauliflower and broccoli gratin is a healthy and delicious dish that you’ll want to make again and again. With its creamy bechamel sauce and flavorful vegetables, it’s perfect for any meal. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your family and friends!