Cauliflower Casserole A La Astoria
A savory cauliflower casserole with feta, tomatoes, and herbs, topped with golden bread crumbs. Perfect for a comforting vegetarian main or side dish with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cauliflower flowerets in an 11 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Pour the chicken broth over the cauliflower.
- Sprinkle the minced tomato, oregano, salt, and pepper over the cauliflower.
- Add the crumbled Feta cheese and toss well to combine.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking until the cauliflower is very tender, about 30 minutes.
- Toss the bread crumbs with the olive oil.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the cauliflower.
- Bake until the crumbs are golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider sautéing some garlic or onions before adding them to the casserole. If fresh oregano isn't available, you can substitute with a smaller amount of dried oregano. To enhance creaminess, try mixing in some cream cheese or sour cream with the Feta. This dish pairs well with Mediterranean recipes, particularly those featuring chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a main dish or as a hearty side alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of Tomato And Rosemary Soup for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it with quinoa or a grain salad to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cauliflower Casserole A La Astoria contains roughly 868 calories, with 12g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (204% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (165% of the Daily Value), and calcium (123% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1860mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before incorporating it into the casserole. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly since frozen cauliflower may release more moisture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply cover with foil and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Feta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute, crumbled goat cheese or ricotta can work well. For a similar tangy flavor, you might also consider using a sharp cheddar or a vegan cheese alternative if you're aiming for dairy-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).