In the heart of autumn, when the leaves dance in vibrant hues of gold and crimson, I find myself drawn to the kitchen. One chilly evening, as the scent of woodsmoke wafted through the air, I decided to create a dish that would celebrate the season’s bounty. This Hearty Harvest Vegetable Casserole was born from a mix of fresh vegetables, comforting spices, and a sprinkle of nostalgia. It’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones, warming both the stomach and the soul.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced butternut squash
  • 1 cup chopped broccoli
  • 1 cup sliced carrots
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to warm up while you prepare the casserole. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in a drizzle of olive oil and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Once the onions are ready, introduce the diced butternut squash and sliced carrots to the skillet. Cook for about five to seven minutes until they start to soften, their sweetness released into the air. Add in the chopped broccoli, black beans, and corn, stirring to combine the colorful medley of vegetables.

Now, sprinkle the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture, allowing the spices to coat the veggies evenly. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. This will create a lovely sauce that envelops the vegetables in warmth.

In a large casserole dish, layer the cooked quinoa at the bottom, creating a hearty base. Spoon the vegetable mixture over the quinoa, spreading it evenly. Finally, top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, letting it cascade over the vegetables like a golden blanket.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, then remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it warm, and watch as your loved ones gather around the table, savoring each bite as they share stories and laughter, just like we did on that memorable autumn evening.

This Hearty Harvest Vegetable Casserole not only warms the body but also fills the heart with the joy of togetherness. Enjoy every moment!