Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Oatmeal Bake:

• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 tablespoons oatmeal
• 1 small pumpkin (about 300 grams, peeled and diced)
• Olive oil (for drizzling and sautéing)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, peeled and grated
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• Fresh dill (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (to taste)

For the Pickled Cucumber Greek Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 pickled cucumber (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• Fresh dill (optional, for garnish)

Steps to Make Savory Pumpkin Oatmeal Bake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to get it ready for baking. Grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables Start by preparing the pumpkin. Peel and dice the pumpkin into small cubes, about 1 cm in size. Set the pumpkin aside. Next, finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, grate the carrot, and chop the bell pepper. These vegetables will add flavor, texture, and nutrients to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the grated carrot and chopped bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then remove it from the heat and set it aside.

Step 4: Mix the Pumpkin and Oats In a large bowl, combine the diced pumpkin, sautéed vegetable mixture, and 6 tablespoons of oatmeal. The oatmeal will help bind the ingredients and provide a hearty texture to the bake. Season the mixture with more salt, pepper, and fresh chopped dill and parsley according to your taste.

Step 5: Add the Eggs In a separate small bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the beaten eggs into the pumpkin-oatmeal mixture and stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. The eggs will act as a binder, helping the bake hold together as it cooks.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help the bake develop a golden, crispy top layer. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes at 180°C, or until the top is golden and firm to the touch. The oatmeal should absorb moisture from the vegetables, and the eggs will set, giving the bake a satisfying texture.

Step 7: Prepare the Sauce While the bake is cooking, prepare the pickled cucumber Greek yogurt sauce. Finely chop the pickled cucumber and place it in a small bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the cucumber and stir to combine. This sauce adds a tangy, refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked pumpkin. If you like, you can also add a little fresh dill to the sauce for extra flavor.

Step 8: Serve Once the bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice the pumpkin oatmeal bake into portions and serve warm. Drizzle or serve each slice with a spoonful of the pickled cucumber Greek yogurt sauce for a fresh, zesty finish.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 420mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use another type of squash instead of pumpkin? Yes, you can substitute pumpkin with butternut squash, acorn squash, or even sweet potatoes. Each of these will add a slightly different flavor and texture but will work well in this recipe.

2. Can I use instant oats instead of regular oats? Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture may be softer compared to using regular rolled oats. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, stick to traditional rolled oats.

3. Can I make this bake vegan? Yes! To make this dish vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) and use a plant-based yogurt for the sauce.

4. Can I add cheese to this recipe? Absolutely! If you love a cheesy touch, you can sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top of the bake before putting it in the oven. The cheese will melt and add an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Oatmeal Bake:

• Cut the Pumpkin Evenly: Make sure to dice the pumpkin into even-sized cubes so that they cook uniformly in the oven. If the pieces are too large, they may remain undercooked, while smaller pieces will soften perfectly.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to season each layer of the dish to build depth of flavor. You can also add your favorite herbs or spices like cumin, paprika, or thyme to elevate the taste.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) until heated through.

If you’d like to freeze the bake, let it cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. The bake can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

The pickled cucumber yogurt sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days as well. Stir it before serving as the ingredients may separate slightly in the fridge.

Conclusion: Savory Pumpkin Oatmeal Bake with Pickled Cucumber Greek Yogurt Sauce is a unique and flavorful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of autumn vegetables, hearty oats, and fresh herbs. This meal is not only nutritious but also versatile enough to enjoy for any meal of the day. The creamy, tangy yogurt sauce adds the perfect balance to the richness of the bake, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian dish or a cozy meal to serve your family, this bake is a delicious option that’s both filling and nutritious. Enjoy!