Are you on the lookout for a dish that is both healthy and budget-friendly, and that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further! This Veggie Delight recipe is the answer to your culinary prayers. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that is not only packed with nutrients but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick side dish, this recipe proves that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this delicious and wholesome meal in just 10 minutes of prep time, with the rest of the magic happening in the oven.
Ingredients
For the Veggie Delight:
- Breadcrumbs: 1.4 oz (40g)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1.4 oz (40g)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, grated
- Zucchini: 2, sliced
- Peppers: 2, sliced
- Eggplant: 1, sliced
- Basil Powder: 1 tsp (2g)
- Thyme Powder: 1 tsp (2g)
- Salt: 1 tsp (5g)
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (30ml)
For the Garnish:
- Tomatoes: 2, halved and grated (for juice)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (optional)
- Additional Grated Parmesan Cheese: For sprinkling
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 210 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Veggie Delight
Preheating the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). A hot oven ensures that the vegetables will cook evenly and develop a beautiful, roasted flavor.
Slicing the Vegetables
- Slice the zucchini, eggplant, and peppers into large, even pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and maintain a satisfying texture.
- Arrange the sliced vegetables in a glass baking dish. Spreading them out in a single layer allows the heat to circulate around each piece, helping them to cook more uniformly.
Making the Breadcrumb Mixture
- In a shallow bowl or on a plate, combine 1.4 oz (40g) of breadcrumbs, 1.4 oz (40g) of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp (2g) of basil powder, 1 tsp (2g) of thyme powder, 1 tsp (5g) of salt, and the grated garlic from 3 cloves.
- Mix well to ensure that the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the herbs, cheese, and garlic. This mixture will create a deliciously crispy topping for the vegetables.
Coating the Vegetables
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the arranged vegetables in the baking dish. Make sure to cover the vegetables evenly for maximum flavor.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30ml) of olive oil over the breadcrumb-covered vegetables. The olive oil helps the breadcrumbs to crisp up and adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
2. Baking the Veggie Delight
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the vegetables for 40 minutes. During this time, the vegetables will become tender, and the breadcrumb topping will turn golden brown and crunchy.
- The aroma of roasting vegetables and garlic will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait until they are done!
3. Enhancing Flavor with Garnishes
Preparing the Tomato Garnish
- While the vegetables are baking, prepare the tomato garnish. Halve the tomatoes and grate them, collecting the juice and pulp in a bowl. Discard the skins.
- Add a pinch of salt to the tomato juice to enhance the flavor. This fresh tomato sauce will add a burst of acidity that complements the richness of the roasted vegetables.
Adding the Mozzarella and Tomato
- After the vegetables have baked for 40 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the vegetables. The mozzarella will melt into the breadcrumb topping, creating a gooey, cheesy layer.
- Spoon the prepared tomato juice and pulp over the top of the cheese. The tomatoes will bake down into a delicious, slightly caramelized topping that adds a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
4. Serving Up Satisfaction
- Once the veggie delight is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving.
- Serve the dish hot, either as a main course or as a hearty side dish. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to make a complete meal.
- Your taste buds will thank you for this wholesome, delicious treat that’s ready in just 10 minutes of prep time!
Health Benefits
This Veggie Delight is not just quick and easy to prepare; it’s also a healthy option packed with nutrients. The zucchini, eggplant, and peppers are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. The addition of garlic and herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. By baking instead of frying, this dish is lower in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Variations
- Cheese Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese altogether or use a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled over the top for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture if you like a bit of heat.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as mushrooms, tomatoes, or onions. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Tips for Success
- Even Slicing: Ensure that all the vegetables are sliced to a similar thickness to guarantee even cooking.
- Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy topping, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serving Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even as a filling for a hearty sandwich.
Conclusion
This Veggie Delight is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish to complement your main course, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Give it a try and discover the joy of healthy, home-cooked food that doesn’t compromise on flavor or convenience!