Thank you so much for letting us know.I decided on being a test-kitchen cook and have come up with my "own" layered veggie casserole now, trying to make it look as appetizing as possible. It's based on a Mary Mc Dougall recipe she called Vegetable Rice Bake and published in 1994. I changed it up with multiple rices for contrast in the bottom layer and added yellow squash for more color in the vegetable layer on top. It's the first time I've used fresh salsa, not bottled, which is the middle layer. I think it adds something - might be my imagination. I turned the cherry tomatoes garnish so the cut sides face up, and that makes it look more interesting, at least to me.
Baked it in a round, red and white casserole dish ddil gave me and it worked out fine, so she should be pleased when she sees it used at the party. Also, this way, for those who really aren't interested when it's put beside rich holiday food, at least it doesn't take up the table space of a large rectangular casserole.
I certainly enjoy getting out the Instant Pot, even in this small kitchen. When you have several things going at one time, it's nice to know one is fine with waiting.
