Creamy Parmesan Vegetable Bake

This Creamy Parmesan Vegetable Bake combines the heartwarming flavors of garden-fresh vegetables with the rich, comforting taste of Parmesan cream sauce. The recipe is a wonderful mix of health and taste, using simple ingredients to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for those who love a good, hearty meal without too much fuss in the kitchen.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want to treat yourself to a delicious, nourishing meal, this vegetable bake will do the trick. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or as a side dish for gatherings. The golden, crispy top layer of Parmesan makes every bite irresistibly enticing, ensuring that this dish will be a favorite at any dining table.

Ingredients:

  • 500 ml (2 cups) cream
  • 160 grams (1 cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 bunch spring onions, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 zucchinis, sliced into rounds
  • 900 grams (2 lbs) potatoes, sliced into rounds
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Oregano, to taste
  • Sunflower oil, for greasing

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream and Parmesan cheese. Beat with a mixer until smooth.
  3. Add chopped spring onions and minced garlic to the mixture.
  4. Slice the zucchinis and potatoes into rounds.
  5. Season the zucchini and potatoes with salt, black pepper, and oregano.
  6. Mix the seasoned vegetables with the cream and Parmesan mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
  7. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to marinate.
  8. Grease a baking dish with sunflower oil and transfer the vegetable mixture into the dish.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and golden brown.

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 50 minutes Total Time: 70 minutes Kcal: 350 kcal per serving Servings: 6 servings

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Creamy Parmesan Vegetable Bake as a standalone vegetarian main course, or pair it with a light protein such as grilled chicken or fish for a more filling meal. It’s also perfect alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the creamy vegetables.

Cooking Tips

  • For an even bake, try to slice the zucchini and potatoes as uniformly as possible.
  • Adding a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with a little Parmesan on top before baking can provide an additional crunchy texture.
  • If you prefer a less rich dish, you can substitute half of the cream with a light béchamel sauce made with skim milk.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is a great source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and fiber, thanks to the zucchini and potatoes. Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein, making this a balanced dish in terms of essential nutrients. The cream, while adding richness and flavor, also provides a dose of calcium and vitamins A and D.

Dietary Information

This recipe is suitable for vegetarians and those on a gluten-free diet. It can be adapted for a low-lactose diet by using lactose-free cream and cheese. However, it is high in fats due to the cream and cheese, so those watching their fat intake might want to enjoy it in moderation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Creamy Parmesan Vegetable Bake for its comfort food appeal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the natural sweetness of the vegetables and the salty tang of Parmesan cheese makes for a satisfying dish that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is easy to prepare. Its versatility also means you can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer, making it a practical dish for any season.

Conclusion

The Creamy Parmesan Vegetable Bake is the perfect dish for anyone looking to bring a touch of gourmet to their daily meals without too much effort. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, its comforting and rich flavor profile is sure to win hearts. It’s not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings together the best of wholesome ingredients and culinary comfort.