Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin

Vegan Mariposa Squash Gratin Recipe with Garlic and Olive Oil

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 80 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for the fall and winter months. This recipe features butternut squash, which is known for its sweet and nutty flavor. The squash is coated in a flavorful mixture of garlic, flour, marjoram, salt, and pepper, then baked until crispy and golden brown. This gratin makes a great side dish for any meal and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of this recipe are not entirely clear, but gratins have been a popular dish in French cuisine for centuries. A gratin is a dish that is topped with breadcrumbs, cheese, or a mixture of both, then baked until crispy and golden brown. This technique helps to create a delicious crust on top of the dish, adding texture and flavor. In this recipe, the butternut squash is coated in a mixture of flour and seasonings before being baked, resulting in a crispy and flavorful gratin.

Ingredients

1 clove of garlic
1 tbsp or more of all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp of marjoram
1 tsp of salt
1 pinch of black pepper
2.5 lb of butternut squash, cut into 0.33-inch dice
2 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a small bowl, combine the garlic, flour, marjoram, salt, and pepper.
In a well-oiled, 2 qt (2 liter) shallow baking dish, toss the squash pieces with the flour mixture, coating them evenly. Drizzle the coated squash with 1 tbsp of oil and toss well.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the mixture. Cover the dish tightly with foil and cut 3 slits in the foil to allow steam to escape.
Bake the squash mixture in the upper third of the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and gently toss the mixture. Increase the heat to 400°F (204°C) and bake the squash for an additional 40 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the gratin before baking for a cheesy twist.
Mix in some cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky and savory flavor.
Substitute the butternut squash with acorn squash or sweet potatoes for a different twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cut the butternut squash into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Toss the squash pieces with the flour mixture until they are evenly coated to help thicken the sauce and create a crispy crust.

- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap in the steam and help the squash cook evenly.

- Remove the foil during the last 40 minutes of baking to allow the squash to brown and crisp up.

- Serve the gratin hot out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also enjoy this gratin on its own as a light and flavorful vegetarian dish.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin is to bake it at a low temperature for the first 40 minutes, then increase the heat to 400°F (204°C) for the last 40 minutes. This helps to cook the squash evenly and create a crispy crust on top. Be sure to toss the squash halfway through baking to ensure that it browns evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have marjoram on hand, you can substitute it with dried thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. You can also use any type of winter squash in place of the butternut squash, such as acorn squash or kabocha squash.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin in a shallow baking dish or individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top for added texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin pairs well with a variety of wines, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, serve this dish with sparkling water or a fruity iced tea. You can also pair this gratin with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the gratin in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin contains approximately 150 calories. This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy option for a side dish.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin contains approximately 7 grams of fat. Fat is essential for absorbing certain vitamins and minerals, as well as providing energy for the body.

Proteins

Each serving of Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin contains approximately 2 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, as well as supporting a healthy immune system.

Vitamins and minerals

Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function, vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, and potassium helps regulate fluid balance in the body.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic and flour, which are common allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy side dish that the whole family will love.

Summary

Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for the fall and winter months. This recipe features butternut squash coated in a flavorful mixture of garlic, flour, marjoram, salt, and pepper, then baked until crispy and golden brown. With its low calorie count and high nutritional value, this gratin is a healthy and satisfying side dish that the whole family will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor Mrs. Jenkins tend to her garden. As a thank you for my hard work, she invited me inside for a cool glass of lemonade and to share one of her favorite recipes.

Mrs. Jenkins was a sweet old lady with a talent for cooking. Her kitchen was always filled with the most delicious aromas, and I was eager to learn from her. She handed me a faded recipe card with the title "Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin" written in elegant script. She explained that Mariposa squash was a unique variety that she had grown in her garden, and that this recipe was a family favorite.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could tell that this dish was something special. The combination of tender squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs sounded like a winning combination. Mrs. Jenkins walked me through each step, showing me how to slice the squash thinly and layer it in a baking dish with the cheese and breadcrumbs.

As the gratin baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the most tantalizing aroma. When it was finally ready, we sat down at the table to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The squash was perfectly cooked, with a rich and creamy texture that melted in my mouth. The crispy breadcrumb topping added a delightful crunch that complemented the dish perfectly.

From that day on, Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often make it for family gatherings and special occasions, always receiving compliments on its delicious flavor. Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding a touch of garlic here, a sprinkle of fresh herbs there, but the basic elements have remained the same.

As I continued to hone my cooking skills, I sought out new recipes and techniques to add to my repertoire. I traveled far and wide, collecting recipes from friends, family, and even strangers I met along the way. Each recipe had a story behind it, a connection to the person who had shared it with me.

One of my favorite memories is of a trip to France, where I learned to make a traditional ratatouille from a charming old woman in a small village. She showed me how to layer the vegetables just so, and how to slowly simmer the dish until it was bursting with flavor. I still make her recipe to this day, always thinking of her as I chop the onions and peppers.

Another cherished recipe comes from my own mother, who taught me how to make her famous apple pie. She would spend hours in the kitchen, rolling out the dough and slicing the apples with precision. The smell of cinnamon and nutmeg would fill the house, signaling that a warm and comforting dessert was on its way.

As the years passed, I realized that cooking was more than just a way to nourish my body. It was a way to connect with others, to share stories and memories, and to create something beautiful from simple ingredients. Each recipe I learned became a part of me, a thread in the tapestry of my life.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of home, I am grateful for all the recipes that have come into my life. From Mrs. Jenkins' Crisp Mariposa Squash Gratin to the ratatouille from France, each dish holds a special place in my heart. And as I continue to cook and explore new flavors, I know that there will always be more recipes waiting to be discovered, more stories waiting to be shared.