bohemianwanderer – This courgette and maftoul bake offers a vibrant mix of summer vegetables, herbs, and spices, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a delicious and satisfying vegetarian main course that is quick to prepare and full of seasonal flavors. With a mix of sweetcorn, courgettes, and fragrant herbs, this dish is ideal for a light yet hearty meal for four people.
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Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add crushed garlic cloves and sliced green chilli, cooking for about one minute until fragrant. Then add thinly sliced courgettes—using one yellow if available for color—along with spring onions, oregano, dried mint, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir frequently and cook for five minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and absorb the spices.
Next, mix in sweetcorn kernels, maftoul or fregola, and a mix of fresh chopped coriander, mint, and dill. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and stir well. Season again with a bit more salt. Bring everything to a boil, then cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes. During this time, the maftoul will absorb most of the liquid, leaving a tender and flavorful base.
Golden Cheese Topping and Fresh Herb Garnish to Finish
Once the maftoul is tender and the mixture has thickened, sprinkle grated mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the surface. Place the pan under a hot grill for around five minutes. The cheese should melt fully and take on a golden-brown color, adding a rich and comforting layer to the dish.
Before serving, garnish the top with a few extra mint leaves and a light drizzle of olive oil. This simple touch adds freshness and a glossy finish. Serve the dish warm, straight from the pan, for a rustic presentation that emphasizes its home-cooked charm.
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This courgette and maftoul bake balances creaminess from the cheese with brightness from the herbs and vegetables. The spices add depth without overwhelming the fresh produce, making it a versatile recipe. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a weeknight dinner, it’s a dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
To adapt this recipe, try adding chickpeas for extra protein or using pearl barley instead of maftoul. For a vegan version, replace the cheese with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable stock. You can also mix in roasted peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for depth. However you choose to serve it, this bake celebrates seasonal vegetables and Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
