Discover the magic of Clafoutis aux Légumes, a savory take on the traditional French dessert. This delightful dish transforms simple vegetables into a comforting, oven-baked masterpiece that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Healthy, satisfying, and bursting with Mediterranean charm, it’s a must-try for anyone craving something fresh and flavorful.
Ingredients – What You’ll Need
To make Clafoutis aux Légumes, you’ll need the following ingredients. This recipe yields about 4 servings:
For the clafoutis base:
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3 large eggs
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100 g (¾ cup) all-purpose flour
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250 ml (1 cup) whole milk
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100 ml (⅖ cup) heavy cream
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50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Vegetables (you can mix and match based on preference):
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1 zucchini, thinly sliced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 small red onion, finely sliced
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1 handful cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 tbsp olive oil
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A few fresh basil leaves or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Required Kitchen Tools
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Cutting board and knife
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Non-stick frying pan
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Oven-safe baking dish or ceramic gratin dish
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Oven mitts
How to Make Clafoutis aux Légumes – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare and sauté the vegetables
Start by washing and prepping all your vegetables. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Then add the zucchini, red bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for another 5–7 minutes until slightly tender but not mushy. Season with a bit of salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
2: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil or butter.
3: Prepare the clafoutis batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Gradually add the flour and continue whisking until smooth. Pour in the milk and cream, and whisk again until the batter is well blended. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
4: Assemble the dish
Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Pour the batter gently over the top, making sure the vegetables are just submerged but still visible. Optionally, sprinkle a few extra pieces of Parmesan on top for a golden crust.
5: Bake to perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the clafoutis is set and lightly golden on top. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
6: Cool and serve
Let the clafoutis rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm, either as a main or side dish.
Helpful Tips for the Best Clafoutis aux Légumes
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Use seasonal vegetables: Try spinach, mushrooms, eggplant, or asparagus depending on the time of year.
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Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour for a similar texture.
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Cheese swap: Parmesan adds a nutty flavor, but you can also use goat cheese, feta, or Gruyère for a different twist.
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Add protein: A few pieces of cooked bacon, ham, or smoked salmon can turn this into a more filling meal.
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Serve with a salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette complements the clafoutis beautifully for a balanced meal.
Approximate Nutritional Value (per serving)
Please note these are estimated values and may vary slightly based on the exact ingredients used:
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Calories: 260 kcal
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Protein: 11 g
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Fat: 16 g
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Carbohydrates: 18 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Sugars: 5 g
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Calcium: 150 mg
This dish is low in carbs and rich in vegetables, making it suitable for light, nutritious meals.
Conclusion – Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Whether you’re new to French cuisine or a long-time fan, Clafoutis aux Légumes offers a deliciously simple way to enjoy vegetables. Its custard-like texture, vibrant flavors, and beautiful presentation make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a go-to recipe for healthy living with a touch of elegance.
Give this Clafoutis aux Légumes a try and bring a taste of France into your home today. Don’t forget to share your version on social media or with friends—bon appétit!
