Unveil the magic of oven-baked vegetables paired with mushrooms with this delectable recipe that combines the rich flavors and health benefits of a variety of vegetables. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, easy-to-make dish that doesn’t skimp on taste, this recipe is bound to become a favorite for its simplicity and the explosion of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 Aubergine (eggplant), cut into chunks
- 1 Zucchini, cut into chunks
- 2 Bell peppers (different colors), deseeded and cut into chunks
- 300g Mushrooms, sliced
- 2 Onions, peeled and chopped
- 3 Tomatoes, chopped
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced
- 50ml Vegetable oil
- 50ml Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Provencal herbs
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 – 1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Oven and Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). This temperature ensures that the vegetables cook evenly without burning.
- In a large bowl, combine the aubergine, zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and tomatoes. Cutting the vegetables into similar-sized chunks ensures even cooking and a uniform texture.
Make the Marinade:
- In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, soy sauce, Provencal herbs, sugar, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and salt until the sugar dissolves. This marinade infuses the vegetables with a rich, savory flavor while the balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Combine and Bake:
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables, tossing gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. This step is crucial to ensure that every bite is flavorful.
- Transfer the vegetables to a large baking dish, spreading them out into an even layer. Spreading them out helps in even roasting and prevents steaming.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even cooking. Stirring ensures that the vegetables cook uniformly and develop a nice roasted texture.
Serve:
- Once the vegetables are tender and nicely roasted, remove from the oven. The vegetables should be soft but not mushy, with a slightly caramelized exterior.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving to enhance flavor and presentation. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
Servings:
This recipe serves 4-6 people as a main dish or 6-8 as a side dish. It’s a versatile dish that can complement a variety of meals or stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian option.
Nutrition Information (per serving as a main dish):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
Variations:
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.
- Herb Variation: Substitute Provencal herbs with Italian seasoning or fresh thyme and rosemary. Each herb blend brings a unique flavor profile that can change the character of the dish.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or tofu to the vegetable mix for added protein. This makes the dish more filling and nutritionally balanced.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the vegetables during the last 10 minutes of baking. The cheese adds a creamy, salty finish that complements the roasted vegetables.
Tips:
- Uniform Cuts: Cut all vegetables into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking. This prevents some vegetables from becoming overcooked while others remain undercooked.
- Stirring: Stir the vegetables halfway through baking to prevent sticking and ensure even roasting. This helps develop a uniform texture and flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the vegetables.
- Meal Prep: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake when ready to serve. This is a great option for busy weeknights or for preparing meals in advance.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Main Dish: Serve over a bed of quinoa, rice, or couscous for a complete meal. The grains soak up the flavorful juices from the vegetables, creating a satisfying dish.
- With Protein: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a well-rounded meal. The vegetables complement a variety of proteins, making it a versatile side dish.
- On Pasta: Mix with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a delicious pasta primavera. The vegetables add color, flavor, and nutrition to the pasta.
- In Wraps: Use as a filling for wraps or pita bread, adding a dollop of hummus or tzatziki. This makes a quick and healthy lunch option.
- On Pizza: Top a pre-baked pizza crust with these vegetables and some mozzarella for a vegetable-packed pizza. The roasted vegetables add a deep, rich flavor to the pizza.
Health Benefits:
- Rich in Nutrients: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from a variety of vegetables. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.
- Low in Calories: A healthy, low-calorie option for those watching their intake. This makes it a great dish for weight management.
- High in Fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps keep you feeling full longer. Fiber is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system and can help prevent overeating.
- Versatile: Can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and restrictions. Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, this dish can be easily modified to meet your needs.
Enjoy this healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion! Whether you are looking for a side dish to complement a meal or a main dish that is both satisfying and nutritious, oven-baked vegetables with mushrooms is an excellent choice. The recipe is easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. Make it part of your regular meal rotation and enjoy the health benefits and delicious taste it brings to your table.
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