Vegetable Gratin With Cucumber
A delicious vegetable gratin featuring crisp cucumber, tender spring onions, and cauliflower topped with cheesy breadcrumbs, perfect as a comforting side dish or light main.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Quarter the unpeeled cucumber and then cut each quarter into 1/4 inch slices.
- Fry the spring onions and cauliflower in butter for 5 minutes.
- Place the cucumber slices in the bottom of an ovenproof dish.
- Spread the fried spring onions and cauliflower mixture over the cucumber.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Mix the grated cheese with the breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or dill, which complement the cucumbers well. If you don't have spring onions, regular onions can work, but adjust the cooking time. For a different texture, you could substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative or use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor. If you prefer, add sliced tomatoes for extra moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Vegetable Gratin as a main dish or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with Lemon-Garlic Green Beans for a fresh contrast. A simple salad, like a Chunky Greek Salad, can complement the richness of the gratin. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the gratin in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the top is crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Gratin With Cucumber contains roughly 204 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 906mg 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 use other vegetables in this gratin?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just ensure that the vegetables you choose have similar cooking times to ensure even cooking and a great texture.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the Vegetable Gratin is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Just note that the texture may slightly change when reheated, but the flavors will still be delicious.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A mild cheese like mozzarella or a tangy cheese like feta can work well in this gratin. If you're looking for a stronger flavor, try sharp cheddar or Gruyère. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect combination!
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).