Hearty Winter Squash and Parsnip Gratin
Indulge in the comforting flavors of autumn with this Hearty Winter Squash and Parsnip Gratin. Perfect for cozy family gatherings or holiday feasts, this dish combines the sweet nuttiness of acorn squash, the creamy richness of butternut squash, and the earthy tones of parsnips, all layered beneath a golden breadcrumb and cheese topping. Each bite offers a delightful blend of seasonings and textures, making it a nutritious and satisfying addition to any meal. Ideal for vegetarians and those seeking to add more vegetables to their diet, this gratin is both easy to prepare and irresistible!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
dry breadcrumbs
1/3 cup (none)
fresh parsley
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon (none)
dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
acorn squash
4 cups (cubed and peeled (1 pound))
butternut squash
2 cups (cubed and peeled (1/2 pound))
parsnips
2 cups (peeled and chopped)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
olive oil-flavored vegetable cooking spray
as needed (for greasing the casserole dish)
reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (shredded (2 ounces))
oregano sprig
to garnish (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry breadcrumbs, finely chopped parsley, salt, oregano, thyme, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the herbs and seasonings.
3
Add the cubed acorn squash, butternut squash, and chopped parsnips to the breadcrumb mixture. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and gently toss until everything is well coated.
4
Transfer the vegetable mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish that has been coated with olive oil-flavored cooking spray, spreading it out evenly.
5
Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours, allowing the vegetables to become tender.
6
After 1.5 hours, remove the cover and sprinkle the shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the gratin.
7
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8
Once finished, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh oregano sprigs.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Winter Squash and Parsnip Gratin?
It is a comforting autumn dish featuring acorn squash, butternut squash, and parsnips layered with breadcrumbs and cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for vegetarians and those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.
How many servings does this gratin make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What types of winter squash are used?
The recipe uses 4 cups of acorn squash and 2 cups of butternut squash.
What is the required oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius).
How long do the vegetables need to bake while covered?
The vegetables should bake covered for 1.5 hours until they are tender.
What kind of cheese is recommended for the topping?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese.
Can I use regular sharp cheddar instead of reduced-fat?
Yes, you can substitute regular sharp cheddar if you prefer.
Which herbs are mixed with the breadcrumbs?
The breadcrumb mixture includes finely chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, and dried thyme.
How should the parsnips be prepared?
The parsnips should be peeled and chopped.
Does the acorn squash need to be peeled?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the acorn squash should be peeled and cubed.
What size casserole dish is needed?
You will need a 2-quart casserole dish.
How long is the final baking time after adding the cheese?
Bake the gratin uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
What type of cooking spray is used?
Olive oil-flavored vegetable cooking spray is used to grease the dish.
Is there a suggested garnish for this dish?
Yes, you can garnish the finished dish with fresh oregano sprigs.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is a nutritious vegetable-based dish featuring healthy winter squash and parsnips.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the vegetables.
What seasonings are used besides herbs?
The recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
How do I prepare the casserole dish?
Coat the 2-quart casserole dish with olive oil-flavored cooking spray before adding the vegetables.
What is the total approximate baking time?
The total baking time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Can I substitute the butternut squash?
Yes, you can use other winter squashes like more acorn squash or kabocha if butternut is unavailable.
When should the cheese be added?
Add the cheese after the initial 1.5 hours of baking once the vegetables are tender.
Is this dish suitable for holiday feasts?
Yes, its flavors and presentation make it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family meals.
How do you ensure the vegetables are well coated with seasoning?
Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables in the breadcrumb mixture and gently toss everything together.
Should the casserole be covered during the whole baking process?
No, it is covered for the first 1.5 hours and then uncovered for the final 15 minutes.
Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh oregano, typically using three times the amount of dried called for.
How many cups of breadcrumbs are required?
The recipe requires 1/3 cup of dry breadcrumbs.
How should the butternut squash be prepared?
The butternut squash should be peeled and cubed.
Is this gratin served as a side dish?
Yes, it is a satisfying side dish that pairs well with many main courses.
What is the final step before serving?
Let the dish cool slightly after removing it from the oven before you serve it.