It's fascinating how our sense of smell is so deeply connected to memories. One whiff of a certain dish can transport us back to a place deep in the recesses of our minds. This happened to me recently while making my grandmother's cheesy squash casserole so I could share it avec vous. The instant it started baking au four, I was back in my grandmother's kitchen watching in awe as she pulled this family favorite out of the oven. I hope that this dish will bring you as much satisfaction as it does me (and my entire extended family).
If you'd like to use this as a "twofer" recipe, I have two options for you. First, make it as a side dish as is, and it will serve as your veggie on the side twice. It's just as good reheated, maybe even better, and goes great with all types of protein. Second, you can double this recipe and add cooked sausage to it. Then it becomes a one dish meal you can eat deux fois.
Notes: I've accidentally made it sans the eggs before (ahem, last night), and it's just as good without them. So, if you are out of eggs, do not let that deter you. Also, if you add the seasoning on top of the mayo and then combine it all, I find that helps to better distribute the seasonings through the entire dish.
Bon appétit! My grandmother would be so humbled to have you baking this dish.
French lesson du jour
Avec vous: with you
Au four: in the oven
Deux fois: twice
Marion's Squash Casserole