This flavorful baked vegetable dish combines the freshness of zucchini, eggplant, and peppers with the creamy richness of a garlic yogurt sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a perfect side dish or light main course that is both comforting and nutritious.
Total Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 eggplant, sliced
- 2 peppers (any color), sliced
- 200g cherry tomatoes
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 2 medium onions, sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Smoked paprika, to taste
- Italian herbs, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- 150g yogurt
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 150-200g cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar), grated
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Mix Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, eggplant, peppers, cherry tomatoes, carrot, and onions.
- Season: Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian herbs. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
Prepare the Yogurt Garlic Sauce:
- Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the yogurt and minced garlic together until well combined.
Assemble:
- Spread Vegetables: Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Add Sauce: Dollop the yogurt garlic sauce over the vegetables, spreading it out slightly but not covering them entirely.
Bake:
- Bake Vegetables: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and starting to brown.
Add Cheese:
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese over the vegetables during the last 10 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt and slightly brown.
Serve:
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked vegetables from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
- Main Course: Pair with a light green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Toppings: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Even Slices: Slice the vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Cheese Variation: Try using a mix of cheeses like Parmesan and mozzarella for added depth of flavor.
- Herb Substitutions: You can use fresh herbs in place of dried Italian herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Yogurt: Adds calcium and probiotics, beneficial for gut health.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, as long as all ingredients used are gluten-free.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: The combination of roasted vegetables, creamy garlic yogurt sauce, and melted cheese is delicious.
- Healthy: Full of vegetables, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile: Can be served as a side or a main dish, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheese.
Conclusion:
This Baked Vegetables with Garlic Yogurt Sauce and Cheese is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, the combination of roasted vegetables, creamy yogurt, and melted cheese is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful taste and comforting texture of this delicious recipe!