This Savory Vegetable Bake is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with vibrant vegetables, herbs, and topped with golden melted cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a light dinner, a side dish, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 leek, chopped
- 300 g (10.5 oz) cabbage, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 potatoes, chopped
- A pinch of dill
- A pinch of parsley
- 4 eggs
- 4 tbsp (40 ml) olive oil
- 4 tbsp (40 ml) milk
- 1 tsp (8 g) salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp (100 g) flour
- ½ pack (5 g) baking soda
- 50 g (1.75 oz) grated cheddar cheese
- Sesame seeds and black cumin, for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Chop the leek, cabbage, red pepper, carrots, and potatoes. Place them on a large tray.
- Add a pinch of dill and parsley to the vegetables and mix well.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually add the flour and baking soda, whisking until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
Combine the Mixture:
- Pour the egg and flour sauce over the vegetables.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
Bake the Vegetable Mixture:
- Line a large baking tray with greaseproof paper.
- Spread the vegetable mixture evenly over the tray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Add Cheese and Garnish:
- After 30 minutes, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and black cumin.
Final Bake:
- Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve:
- Let the bake cool slightly before slicing into squares or rectangles.
- Serve warm as a main dish or side.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad and a light vinaigrette.
- Serve as a side with grilled chicken or fish.
- Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Add to a brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs and bread.
- Serve with a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
Cooking Tips
- Chop the vegetables evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- For extra flavor, add chili flakes or your favorite spices to the sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheddar for the best melting texture.
- Cover the tray with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Experiment with additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach for variety.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in fiber from the cabbage, carrots, and potatoes.
- Eggs and cheddar cheese provide protein and calcium.
- Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables may change.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A versatile dish that works for any meal of the day.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
- A healthy and satisfying way to enjoy vegetables.
- Simple to prepare, yet flavorful and impressive.
Conclusion
This Savory Vegetable Bake with Cheddar Cheese is a wholesome, tasty dish that will quickly become a household favorite. With its colorful array of vegetables and cheesy topping, it’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously nutritious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, feel free to substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or spinach. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour. - What cheese works best?
Cheddar is ideal, but mozzarella or Gouda can also be used. - Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate. Bake just before serving. - Can I skip the sesame seeds and black cumin?
Yes, they are optional and can be omitted. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables may change. - What can I use instead of baking soda?
Baking powder works as a substitute; use 1.5 teaspoons. - How can I make it spicier?
Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the vegetable mix. - Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but it may slightly alter the texture. - What pairs well with this bake?
It’s great with salads, soups, or as a side to grilled proteins.