Gardun Casserole
A hearty vegetable casserole with flavorful seasonings, combining potatoes, peppers, zucchini, and cheese for a satisfying vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw cubed potatoes ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped onions ⓘ
- 2 cups diced green peppers ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon Tabasco ⓘ
- 2 pounds sliced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 cup roughly ground Munster cheese
- 2 quarts cubed eggplant ⓘ
- 2 cups diced zucchini squash ⓘ
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup English peas ⓘ
- 3 teaspoons salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the zucchini by slicing it into long green strips, then roll in a mixture of 1 cup meal, 2 tablespoons flour, 2 eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Fry the coated zucchini in shortening until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
- In a large casserole, layer the cubed potatoes, chopped onions, diced green peppers, sliced tomatoes, diced carrots, and cubed eggplant.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley, salt, and pepper over the layered vegetables.
- Add the roughly ground Munster cheese and sliced maters on top.
- Pour olive oil and cider vinegar evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, until vegetables are tender and top is golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider roasting the eggplant beforehand to reduce bitterness. You can substitute the Munster cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred. Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of Tabasco. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also enhance the dish's aroma and taste. If you prefer a vegan version, you can omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This Gardun Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be served alongside grilled meats or as a hearty vegetarian main dish. For a delightful brunch option, serve it with a side of Budget Fruit Punch to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gardun Casserole contains roughly 1311 calories, with 45g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (438% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (168% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2279mg per serving (99% 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 prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Layer the ingredients as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of eggplant?
If you're not a fan of eggplant, you can substitute it with additional zucchini or bell peppers. Both options will maintain the casserole's texture and flavor while catering to your preferences.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).