Are you ready to transform ordinary vegetables into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at the dinner table begging for seconds? This Cheesy Veggies and Croutons recipe is not just a side dish – it's a culinary adventure that combines the crispy crunch of croutons, the creamy richness of melted mozzarella, and the vibrant flavors of fresh mixed vegetables. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a dish so irresistible, it might just become your new favorite go-to recipe for family dinners, potlucks, or when you're craving something both comforting and exciting!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and chop mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn) into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring the pan is evenly coated.
- Add mixed vegetables to the skillet, stirring gently to coat with olive oil and prevent sticking.
- Sauté vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly tender but retain their vibrant colors.
- Pour cream into the skillet, reducing heat to low and allowing vegetables to simmer gently.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste and stirring to distribute seasoning evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the vegetables, allowing it to melt slowly and create a creamy texture.
- Remove skillet from heat once cheese is completely melted and vegetables are tender.
- Transfer vegetable and cheese mixture to a serving dish, spreading evenly.
- Top with croutons just before serving to maintain their crispy texture.
- Serve immediately while warm, ensuring each portion has a good mix of vegetables, cheese, and croutons.
Tips
- Vegetable Prep is Key: Cut your vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Don't Overcook: Sauté vegetables just until they're tender-crisp to maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value.
- Cheese Melting Technique: Reduce heat to low when adding cheese to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Crouton Crunch Hack: Add croutons at the very last moment to preserve their crispy texture and prevent sogginess.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with different cheese varieties like cheddar or parmesan for unique taste profiles.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Serve this dish as a side or add protein like grilled chicken or tofu to make it a full meal.
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest vegetables possible for the best flavor and nutritional punch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
