These Savory Baked Oats are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast or brunch dish, combining the nuttiness of oats with a cheesy and savory vegetable mix. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is perfect for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
Oat Base:
- 2 cups rolled oats (180g)
- ¼ cup ground oats or oat flour (25g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Liquid:
- 1 cup milk (240ml)
- 1 cup water (240ml)
Eggs and Seasoning:
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheesy Goodness:
- ½ cup grated gouda cheese (50g)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (20g)
Savory Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced (about 130g)
- ⅓ cup frozen peas (50g)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (80g)
Instructions:
Sautéing the Veggies:
- Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté them for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. This forms the flavorful base for your baked oats.
Zucchini and Peas Join the Party:
- Add the sliced zucchini and frozen peas to the pan with the softened onions and garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the zucchini is slightly tender-crisp.
Toasting the Oats:
- To add a nutty depth of flavor, pour the rolled oats into the pan with the cooked vegetables. Toast the oats for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and slightly golden brown.
Cooling Down:
- Once toasted, remove the pan from the heat and let the oat mixture cool slightly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling when added later.
Creating the Wet Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, water, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, grated gouda cheese, ground oats, and baking powder. This mixture binds all the ingredients together.
Combining the Stars:
- Add the cooled oat and vegetable mixture to the wet ingredients in the bowl. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Let the combined mixture sit for 10 minutes. This allows the oats to absorb some of the liquid and soften slightly.
Baking Time:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish.
From Batter to Baked Delight:
- Bake the savory baked oats for 40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The top should be slightly golden brown.
Cooling and Slicing:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting. This allows the oats to firm up slightly for easier slicing.
Serving Up Savory Goodness:
- Cut the baked oats into 6 equal pieces for portion control. Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy element and a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy contrast, or add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Cooking Tips:
- To avoid scrambling the eggs, allow the toasted oats and vegetables to cool slightly before mixing with the wet ingredients.
- Use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to change the flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: Provide fiber and protein, which help keep you full.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein to the dish.
- Vegetables: Offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for a balanced meal.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish is vegetarian.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and oat flour to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a unique, savory twist on classic baked oats.
- Packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a wholesome meal.
- Easy to make and highly customizable to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion:
These Savory Baked Oats with Vegetables and Cheese are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Their delightful combination of flavors, textures, and wholesome ingredients will satisfy your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Enjoy making this nutritious and delicious recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use other types of cheese instead of gouda and parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or feta for different flavors. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the eggs with flax or chia eggs, the cheese with vegan cheese alternatives, and the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. - How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure that both the rolled oats and oat flour are certified gluten-free. - Can I freeze the baked oats?
Yes, you can freeze the baked oats after they’ve cooled completely. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. - What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or kale to customize the dish to your liking. - Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time and may alter the texture, so rolled oats are recommended for this recipe. - What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a fresh green salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup. - How do I prevent the oats from becoming too mushy?
Toasting the oats before mixing them with wet ingredients helps prevent them from becoming too mushy. - Can I use different spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite herbs and spices like paprika, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor. - Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it overnight. Just give it a good stir before baking the next day.