Baked Vegetable Medley with Parmesan and Mozzarella

Baked Vegetable Medley with Parmesan and Mozzarella

Introduction:

This Baked Vegetable Medley is a delightful celebration of fresh, seasonal vegetables, baked to tender perfection and topped with a golden crust of melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. The combination of vibrant colors, textures, and flavors makes this dish a feast for the eyes and the palate. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a vegetarian main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Wholesome and Nutritious: This dish is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the colorful array of vegetables.
• Easy to Customize: You can use any combination of your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences and what’s in season.
• Simple Preparation: The preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal chopping and hands-on time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The vibrant colors and cheesy topping make this dish visually appealing and tempting for everyone at the table.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• Vegetables:

  • Zucchini, sliced
  • Yellow squash, sliced
  • Bell peppers (any color), sliced
  • Red onion, sliced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Broccoli florets
  • Asparagus spears, trimmed

• Other Ingredients:

  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Dried oregano
  • Dried basil
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese

HOW TO MAKE BAKED VEGETABLE MEDLEY:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Vegetables:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Wash and prepare all the vegetables, slicing or chopping them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Toss and Season:

   • In a large bowl, combine all the prepared vegetables.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are coated.

3. Bake the Vegetables:

   • Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

4. Add the Cheese:

   • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the baked vegetables.
   • Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Serve the baked vegetable medley hot as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Choose Seasonal Vegetables: Use the freshest and most flavorful vegetables available in your local market.
• Cut Vegetables Evenly: Ensure that the vegetables are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they roast properly and don’t steam.
• Customize with Your Favorites: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences. Some other great options include mushrooms, eggplant, or green beans.
• Add a Protein Boost: You can add cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu to this dish for a more substantial meal.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Side Dish, Vegetarian Main Course
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

• You can adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your preference.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, broil the vegetables for the last few minutes of cooking.
• Serve this dish with a dollop of pesto, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a side of crusty bread.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

• Can I use frozen vegetables? It’s best to use fresh vegetables for this recipe as frozen vegetables may release excess moisture and affect the texture of the dish.
• Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, you can omit the cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives.
• Can I add herbs to this dish? Absolutely! Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano would complement the flavors of the vegetables beautifully. Add them towards the end of the cooking time to preserve their flavor.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Baked Vegetable Medley, you may also like these other vegetable-forward dishes:

• Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
• Vegetable Curry
• Ratatouille

CONCLUSION:

This Baked Vegetable Medley with Parmesan and Mozzarella is a simple, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy the bounty of fresh vegetables. Its vibrant colors, flavorful combination, and easy preparation make it a perfect addition to any meal. So gather your favorite vegetables and get ready to create a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate!