Cathy's Vegetable Casserole

Vegetable Casserole Recipe with Asparagus, English Peas, Cream, Eggs, Pecans, and Cheese

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cathy's Vegetable Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. This casserole is made with simple ingredients like asparagus, peas, cream of mushroom soup, hard-boiled eggs, pecans, and cheese. It is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Cathy's family. It was originally created by Cathy's grandmother, who used to make it for family gatherings and special occasions. Over the years, the recipe has been tweaked and perfected, resulting in the delicious casserole we know today.

Ingredients

2 cans of asparagus spears
1 can of English peas
2 cans of cream of mushroom soup
3 hard boiled eggs
0.5 cup of chopped pecans
1 cup of grated cheese

How to prepare

Place a can of asparagus (reserve liquid) on the bottom of an oblong baking dish.
Drain pecans and place them on top of the asparagus.
Slice hard-boiled eggs on top of the peas. Sprinkle pecans over the eggs.
Top with the other can of asparagus. Heat the soup and 0.5 can of asparagus liquid.
Pour the soup over the casserole.
Use a fork to mix the soup through the mixture.
Top with grated cheese. Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes.

Variations

Substitute asparagus with green beans or broccoli.
Use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom soup.
Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the pecans before adding them to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

- Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture.

- You can add cooked chicken or turkey to make this casserole a complete meal.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cathy's Vegetable Casserole as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also pairs well with a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen vegetables instead of canned.

- Swap pecans for almonds or walnuts.

- Use any type of cheese you prefer.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare Cathy's Vegetable Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top for a cheesy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cathy's Vegetable Casserole with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cathy's Vegetable Casserole contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cathy's Vegetable Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cathy's Vegetable Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cathy's Vegetable Casserole contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cathy's Vegetable Casserole is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (pecans) and dairy (cheese). Please be mindful of any allergies.

Summary

Cathy's Vegetable Casserole is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Cathy's Vegetable Casserole is a classic dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its simple ingredients and delicious flavors, this casserole is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Cathy's Vegetable Casserole. It was a sunny afternoon in the early 1980s, and I was attending a potluck dinner at my friend Cathy's house. As we all sat around the table, enjoying each other's company and sampling the delicious dishes that had been brought to share, Cathy brought out a piping hot casserole dish that immediately caught my attention.

The aroma that wafted from the dish was intoxicating, a rich blend of savory vegetables and herbs that made my mouth water. Cathy explained that the casserole was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations, and she graciously offered to share it with me. I eagerly accepted, knowing that this was a dish that I wanted to recreate in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have collected recipes from various places and people, each one holding a special memory or story behind it. But Cathy's Vegetable Casserole has always held a special place in my heart. As I began to make the dish for my own family, I found that it quickly became a favorite at our dinner table. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and crispy breadcrumbs was simply irresistible.

I remember the first time I made Cathy's Vegetable Casserole for a family gathering. The dish was met with rave reviews, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had mastered the recipe. As the years went by, I continued to make the casserole for special occasions and holidays, each time tweaking the ingredients and techniques to make it my own.

One of the keys to the success of Cathy's Vegetable Casserole is the quality of the ingredients. I always make sure to use the freshest vegetables I can find, whether it be crisp green beans, sweet corn, or tender carrots. I also take care to season the dish with a blend of herbs and spices that complement the natural flavors of the vegetables.

Another important aspect of the recipe is the creamy sauce that binds the vegetables together. I use a combination of milk, butter, and flour to create a rich and velvety base that coats the vegetables in a decadent layer of flavor. To finish off the casserole, I sprinkle a generous amount of breadcrumbs on top before baking it in the oven until golden and bubbly.

As I sit here reminiscing about the many times I have made Cathy's Vegetable Casserole, I realize that the recipe has become more than just a dish to me. It is a connection to my past, a reminder of the friendships and memories that have shaped my life. Each time I make the casserole, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon at Cathy's house, surrounded by friends and good food.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, it is comforting to have recipes like Cathy's Vegetable Casserole that stand the test of time. And as I pass the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I know that it will continue to bring joy and warmth to our family gatherings for years to come. Cathy's Vegetable Casserole is more than just a dish – it is a legacy that will live on in my kitchen for generations.