Baked Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole

Ingredients:

• For the Casserole:
  • 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into florets
  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Cheese Sauce:
  • 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes and drained
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any other plant-based milk)
  • 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Toss the broccoli and cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, until they are slightly tender and golden brown.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the cheese sauce. In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked and drained cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them to a large mixing bowl and pour the cheese sauce over them. Mix well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
4. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs, nutritional yeast, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   • Transfer the vegetable and cheese mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the bread crumb topping evenly over the top.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious vegan Baked Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole!