Baked vegetables in white sauce is a timeless classic that combines the wholesome goodness of fresh veggies with the creamy richness of a velvety white sauce. This dish, inspired by the renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor, is perfect for those looking to enjoy a comforting yet nutritious meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy family meal, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser with its delicate flavors and inviting aroma.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can use a variety of seasonal vegetables, making it adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
The creamy white sauce binds everything together, creating a luscious texture that complements the natural sweetness and earthiness of the vegetables. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in extra veggies into your diet without compromising on taste or presentation.
If you enjoy dishes like this, you might also want to explore other delicious vegetable-based recipes such as Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners, Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes, and All Vegetable Casserole Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals.
Now, let’s dive right into the recipe and create this delightful dish in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked vegetables in white sauce recipe is a perfect blend of healthy, hearty, and indulgent. It’s an ideal option if you want a delicious meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.
The creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch without overwhelming the natural flavors of the vegetables.
The recipe is incredibly flexible; you can mix and match vegetables based on seasonality or preference. It’s also a great make-ahead dish, perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends.
Plus, it offers a wonderful way to introduce kids or picky eaters to a variety of vegetables in a palatable form.
Thanks to the rich, homemade white sauce that Sanjeev Kapoor champions, this recipe elevates simple ingredients to a gourmet level. It pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, cauliflower, broccoli) | 3 cups (chopped) |
Butter | 3 tablespoons |
All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons |
Milk (warm) | 2 cups |
Grated cheese (optional, for topping) | 1/2 cup |
Salt | to taste |
Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutmeg powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
Chopped fresh parsley (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking dish (oven-safe)
- Steamer or pot for boiling vegetables
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop your mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Steam or boil them in salted water until just tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
- Make the white sauce (béchamel): In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste, cooking it for about 2-3 minutes without browning.
- Add milk gradually: Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg powder to the sauce, adjusting to your taste. Stir well and remove from heat.
- Combine vegetables and sauce: In a mixing bowl, gently toss the steamed vegetables with the white sauce until they are well coated.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the vegetable mixture into a greased oven-safe baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add cheese topping (optional): Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top for a golden, bubbling crust.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
For a vegan twist, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine, use plant-based milk, and skip the cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms depending on what’s in season. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor.
For extra texture, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top before baking. This will give a delightful crunch to the creamy dish.
If you want a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter. You can also prepare the white sauce ahead of time to save on cooking time later.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220-250 kcal |
Protein | 7-9 grams |
Carbohydrates | 18-22 grams |
Fat | 14-16 grams |
Fiber | 4 grams |
Calcium | 150 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This baked vegetables in white sauce dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed rice for a wholesome meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
For a heartier option, enjoy it with grilled tofu or paneer for added protein. It also complements dishes like Vegetable Lasagna Stouffer’s Recipe Made Easy and Delicious or Paneer With Veggies Recipe For a Quick Healthy Meal.
Conclusion
Baked vegetables in white sauce is an exquisite recipe that brings together the best of comfort food and healthy eating, all inspired by the culinary expertise of Sanjeev Kapoor. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an excellent way to incorporate a colorful variety of vegetables into your diet.
The creamy white sauce offers a luscious texture that elevates humble vegetables into a gourmet experience. It’s perfect for any occasion, from an everyday family dinner to a special gathering where you want to impress your guests.
The flexibility of this recipe allows you to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile and cherished addition to your recipe collection.
So, next time you crave something warm, creamy, and nutritious, give this baked vegetable in white sauce recipe a try. And while you’re here, don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes such as Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating and Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for even more culinary inspiration!
📖 Recipe Card: Baked Vegetables in White Sauce Recipe Sanjeev Kapoor
Description: A creamy and delicious baked vegetable dish coated in a rich white sauce. Perfect as a side or a light main course.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, cauliflower), chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg powder
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Steam or boil mixed vegetables until tender; drain and set aside.
- Heat butter in a pan, add garlic and sauté for a minute.
- Add flour and cook for 2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cook until sauce thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Mix vegetables with white sauce and half the cheese.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese, breadcrumbs, and drizzle olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 25 g
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