Vegetable Garden Casserole
A vibrant vegetable casserole layered with zucchini, squash, and tomatoes, topped with cheese and basil, perfect for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions in 2 tablespoons of olive oil; stir in garlic and bread crumbs.
- Remove pan from heat; stir in 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese.
- Spread onion mixture in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Layer zucchini and squash, alternating them, then add a layer of sliced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella and dried basil.
- Repeat layering as desired and drizzle remaining olive oil over the vegetables.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you're short on time, pre-sliced vegetables from the grocery store can save you preparation time. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegetable Garden Casserole pairs beautifully with a side of Middle East Salad for a light meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete dinner, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or tofu on the side.
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 for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Garden Casserole contains roughly 453 calories, with 16g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 888mg per serving (39% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
While fresh vegetables provide the best texture, you can use frozen vegetables if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
What can I substitute for the Mozzarella cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based mozzarella alternative. Alternatively, you could use ricotta cheese mixed with some herbs for a different flavor profile, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.
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).