Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 20 squash blossoms, cleaned and chopped
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Saucepan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the chopped squash blossoms to the sauce and stir to combine.
7. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mixture.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the gratin is bubbling.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 210
- Total fat: 10g
- Saturated fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 470mg
- Total carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of milk, you can use almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
- Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the gratin for a meatier version.
- Add sliced mushrooms or diced onions for extra flavor.
- Use zucchini or eggplant instead of squash blossoms.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to clean the squash blossoms thoroughly before chopping them.
- You can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to use.
- If the gratin is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the gratin in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted asparagus
- Grilled zucchini
- Steamed green beans
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
- If the gratin is too watery, add more breadcrumbs to absorb the excess liquid.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the gratin until it is heated through and the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Food history:
- Squash blossoms have been used in Italian and Mexican cuisine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a side dish.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A