This Vegan Cauliflower, Leek and Cheese Gratin is the ultimate cozy dish for a midweek feast! Tender blanched cauliflower and sautéed leeks are all coated in a creamy, rich sauce. This recipe is also vegan, owing to a quick, creamy sauce made with plant-based milk and vegan blue cheese and thickened with flour. The magic happens when the dish is baked to golden perfection in the oven, letting those breadcrumbs and flaked almonds get wonderfully crispy.
For the best results, make sure to blanch the cauliflower florets in boiling salted water. This step not only elevates the flavor and texture of the dish but also helps to temper the pungent aroma of cauliflower. Once they’ve drained well, combine them with the sautéed leeks and lush béchamel sauce, then bake, and you’re ready for a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and comforting! Enjoy every bite!
To make the Vegan Cauliflower, Leek and Cheese Gratin, you will need the following ingredients:
Preheat the oven to 400 °F and lightly brush a 1-quart baking dish with olive oil.
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and add 2 sliced leeks and 1 teaspoon thyme leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.
In the meantime, to a large pot of lightly salted boiling water, add the cauliflower florets and boil for 2 minutes.
Drain the cauliflower well. Mix the cauliflower florets with the sautéed leeks. Season with a pinch of grated nutmeg, and salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Heat ⅓ cup olive oil in the pan and stir in ⅓ cup flour. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in 1 ⅔ cups unsweetened plant-based milk. Stir in ¼ cup crumbled cheese until melted. Remove from the heat. Taste and adjust for seasoning if needed.
Toss 1 ounce fresh breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Set aside.
Pour the béchamel sauce over the vegetables in the baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the gratin. Scatter ⅛ cup flaked almonds over the top.
Bake the gratin for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm.
This Vegan Cauliflower, Leek and Cheese Gratin is a comforting dish that can be prepared in about 40 minutes, adding a heady note to any weeknight dinner. Did you make this recipe? Share your creations by tagging @cookmerecipes on Instagram with the hashtag #cookmerecipes
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