Delicious Recipes for Baked Vegetables and Salads in Gratin Form

Baked vegetables and salads in gratin form are both healthy and flavorful options for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. These dishes are not only visually appealing but also provide a satisfying and comforting meal. Here are three delicious recipes that will surely tempt your taste buds.

1. Cheesy Potato and Broccoli Gratin:
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of potatoes with the crunchiness of broccoli, all smothered in a cheesy sauce. To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and thinly slice three large potatoes. In a pot of boiling water, blanch one head of broccoli florets for two minutes, then drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt two tablespoons of butter, then add two tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in two cups of milk until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. In a greased baking dish, layer the potato slices and broccoli florets, then pour the cheese sauce over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.

2. Spinach and Mushroom Gratin:
This gratin combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the nutritious benefits of spinach. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter and sauté one diced onion until translucent. Add eight ounces of sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture. Stir in two cloves of minced garlic and three cups of packed fresh spinach leaves, cooking until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. In a separate bowl, whisk together two eggs, half a cup of heavy cream, and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Grease a baking dish and spread the mushroom and spinach mixture evenly. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until nicely browned and bubbling.

3. Tomato and Zucchini Gratin:
This recipe highlights the fresh flavors of tomatoes and zucchini with a cheesy breadcrumb topping. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice three medium-sized tomatoes and two zucchinis. In a skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil and sauté one diced onion until softened. Add the sliced tomatoes and zucchinis, cooking until slightly tender. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. In a separate bowl, combine one cup of breadcrumbs, a quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and two tablespoons of melted butter. Grease a baking dish and layer the tomato and zucchini mixture. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

These delicious recipes for baked vegetables and salads in gratin form are perfect for any occasion. They are not only healthy and packed with nutrients but also provide a delectable and satisfying meal. Enjoy these dishes as a main course or serve them as a side dish to complement your dinner. Experiment with different vegetables and flavors to create your own unique gratin recipes.