Savory Vegetable and Herb Bread: A Healthy and Budget-Friendly Dinner Recipe

This savory vegetable and herb bread is a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a single dish. It’s perfect for a healthy, budget-friendly dinner that everyone will love. This recipe combines a soft, fluffy bread with a medley of fresh vegetables, making it both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients:

  • Egg: 1
  • Sugar: 2 tsp
  • Salt: 1 tsp
  • Warm milk: 170 ml
  • Yeast: 1.5 tsp
  • Warm water: 170 ml
  • Flour: 250 g
  • Parsley: 1 bunch, chopped
  • Green onion: 1, chopped
  • Sweet pepper: 1, chopped
  • Green pepper: 1, chopped
  • Black olives: a handful, sliced
  • Tomato: 1 large, chopped
  • Onion: 1 medium, chopped
  • Potato: 1 large, grated

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, beat the egg. Add the sugar, salt, warm milk, and warm water. Stir well.
  2. Activate Yeast:
    • Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  3. Form Dough:
    • Gradually add the flour to the bowl, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
  4. Let Dough Rise:
    • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the Vegetables:

  1. Chop and Grate:
    • While the dough is rising, chop the parsley, green onion, sweet pepper, green pepper, black olives, tomato, and onion.
    • Grate the potato.

Combine and Assemble:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Mix Vegetables with Dough:
    • Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and mix in the chopped parsley, green onion, sweet pepper, green pepper, black olives, tomato, onion, and grated potato.
    • Mix the dough well to evenly distribute the vegetables throughout.

Bake:

  1. Prepare Baking Dish:
    • Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Bake Bread:
    • Pour the dough into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Serve:

  1. Cool and Slice:
    • Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing.
  2. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve warm or at room temperature, as a main dish or a side.

Additional Information:

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, the vegetables in this recipe add both flavor and nutrition.
  • Whole Ingredients: Using whole ingredients like fresh parsley, green onions, and various peppers ensures that you get the maximum health benefits from your meal.

Tips for Perfect Bread:

  • Rising Dough: Ensure the dough is kept in a warm place to rise properly. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl in an oven that’s been slightly warmed (and then turned off) or near a warm stovetop.
  • Even Mixing: Mix the vegetables thoroughly with the dough to ensure even distribution and consistent flavor in every bite.

Serving Suggestions:

  • As a Main Dish: Pair with a fresh salad or a light soup for a complete meal.
  • As a Side: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a balanced dinner.
  • For Breakfast: This bread can also be a hearty breakfast option. Just toast a slice and spread with a bit of butter or avocado.

Storage:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the bread for longer storage. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Thaw and reheat in the oven or toaster before serving.

Conclusion:

This savory vegetable and herb bread is a perfect addition to your dinner table. It’s not only healthy and budget-friendly but also packed with flavors from a variety of fresh vegetables. Enjoy this delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!