Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake Recipe

The Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake Recipe That Wows Everyone

Mediterranean cooking breathes life into everyday sunny vegetable bake with vibrant colors and incredible flavors.

Ingredients dance together like performers on a culinary stage.

Regional produce creates magic through simple preparation techniques.

Robust herbs and gentle spices whisper stories of coastal landscapes.

Fresh vegetables become something extraordinary when treated with passionate care.

Fragrant aromas will drift through your kitchen, promising deliciousness.

Savor each delectable bite and let this recipe transport you to warm, sunlit shores.

Why Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake Is A Feel-Good Dish

  • Boost Nutrition Powerhouse: Packed with colorful vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and tomatoes, this dish delivers a massive nutrient punch that supports overall health and wellness.
  • Master One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein from eggs, dairy from cheese, and a rainbow of vegetables into a single, satisfying meal that eliminates the need for multiple cooking steps or side dishes.
  • Create Family-Friendly Comfort: Gentle flavors and soft texture make this vegetable bake appealing to both kids and adults, transforming potentially challenging vegetables into a delicious, approachable meal that everyone will enjoy.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows simple ingredient swaps or additions based on personal preferences or what's available in your kitchen, making it perfect for spontaneous cooking adventures.

What Goes In Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake

Core Vegetables:
  • Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that adds texture and vibrant color to the Mediterranean bake.
  • Cauliflower: A versatile white vegetable that provides a mild flavor and tender bite to the dish.
  • Bell Pepper: A sweet and crunchy vegetable that brings fresh flavor and bright color to the recipe.
  • Tomatoes: A juicy ingredient that adds natural sweetness and moisture to the vegetable bake.
  • Onion: A foundational vegetable that provides a rich, savory base flavor to the entire dish.
Dairy and Protein Components:
  • Eggs: A binding ingredient that helps create a smooth, cohesive texture for the vegetable bake.
  • Milk: A creamy liquid that enhances the richness and smoothness of the batter.
  • Grated Cheese: A flavorful topping that adds a golden crust and rich, tangy taste to the dish.
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
  • Parsley: A fresh herb that provides a bright, green garnish with a light herbal flavor.
  • Vegetable Oil, Sunflower Oil: Cooking oils that help prevent sticking and add moisture to the bake.
  • Salt: A seasoning that enhances the overall flavor of the vegetables and batter.
  • Flour: A thickening agent that helps create a stable and smooth batter for the vegetable bake.

How To Bake Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a cozy 180°C (350°F) and get ready for a delightful culinary adventure.

Step 2: Chop Vegetable Treasures

Skillfully transform your fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces:
  • Broccoli florets
  • Cauliflower florets
  • Bell pepper diced
  • Tomatoes diced
  • Onion chopped

Step 3: Sauté Onion Magic

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium flame.

Gently cook onions until they turn a beautiful golden brown, releasing their sweet aroma. Set the caramelized onions aside.

Step 4: Create Silky Batter

In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Eggs
  • Salt
  • Flour
  • Sunflower oil
  • Milk

Blend until the mixture transforms into a smooth, luxurious batter.

Step 5: Combine Veggie Goodness

Fold into the batter:
  • Fried onions
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Bell pepper
  • Tomatoes
  • Chopped parsley

Ensure every vegetable gets a lovely coating of the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Vessel

Transfer the vibrant vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of grated cheese on top for a golden, melty finish.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and vegetables become wonderfully tender.

Step 8: Rest And Serve

Allow the bake to cool slightly, letting the flavors meld and settle. Slice and serve this Mediterranean masterpiece.

Easy Tips For Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake

  • Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour to make this dish celiac-friendly and equally delicious.
  • Rinse vegetables thoroughly before chopping to remove any dirt or pesticide residues for a cleaner dish.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like feta or goat cheese to add unique Mediterranean flavors and enhance taste complexity.
  • Use fresh parsley from your garden or local market for a more vibrant and aromatic result that elevates the overall dish.
  • Let the vegetable bake rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make cutting and serving easier without falling apart.

Flavor Swaps For Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake

  • Spicy Moroccan Fusion: Replace parsley with cilantro, add cumin and paprika for a North African flavor profile. Incorporate diced chorizo for extra protein and heat.
  • Greek Island Style: Swap sunflower oil with olive oil, add crumbled feta cheese, and include sliced kalamata olives. Sprinkle dried oregano for authentic Mediterranean taste.
  • Protein Power Boost: Mix in cooked quinoa or chickpeas for added protein. Incorporate diced grilled chicken or tofu for vegetarian option. Top with sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
  • Low-Carb Garden Harvest: Substitute flour with almond flour or ground flaxseed. Include zucchini and spinach for additional nutrients. Reduce cheese quantity for lighter version.

Best Sides For Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or refreshing Pinot Grigio that complements the vegetable bake's light, Mediterranean flavors and cuts through the richness of the cheese.
  • Serve Alongside Greek Salad: Create a tangy side salad with cucumber, feta, kalamata olives, and a light olive oil dressing to enhance the vegetable bake's Mediterranean profile and add extra texture.
  • Match with Herbed Garlic Bread: Prepare a crusty bread brushed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to soak up the delicious baked vegetable juices and provide a crunchy contrast.

How To Store Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor retention.
  • Freeze: Wrap the vegetable bake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Microwave Reheating: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk to maintain moisture.
  • Oven Reheating: Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F). Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake FAQs

  • Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers. Just thaw and drain them completely before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains flour. To make it gluten-free, substitute the regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.

  • Can I add other vegetables to this bake?

Absolutely! You can include zucchini, spinach, or eggplant. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and add them to the batter.

  • What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Feta, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese are excellent choices. Pick a cheese that melts well and complements the Mediterranean flavors.

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Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake Recipe

Sunny Mediterranean Vegetable Bake Recipe


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4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mediterranean Vegetable Bake brings hearty garden flavors and rustic Italian charm to your dinner table. Layers of zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs meld into a delightful dish you’ll savor with crusty bread and pure Mediterranean spirit.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Vegetables:

  • 500 g (1.1 pounds) broccoli
  • 500 g (1.1 pounds) cauliflower
  • 150 g (5.3 ounces) bell pepper
  • 2 tomatoes
  • 1 onion

Liquids and Binding Ingredients:

  • 40 milliliters (1.35 fluid ounces) vegetable oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 300 milliliters (10.14 fluid ounces) milk
  • 50 milliliters (1.69 fluid ounces) sunflower oil

Dry and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 130 g (4.6 ounces) flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 100 g (3.5 ounces) cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Prepare all vegetables by cutting broccoli and cauliflower into florets, dicing bell peppers and tomatoes, and finely chopping onions.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium temperature, sautéing onions until they transform into a rich golden hue. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Create a silky smooth batter by whisking eggs, salt, flour, sunflower oil, and milk until perfectly blended and free of lumps.
  4. Incorporate the sautéed onions, prepared vegetables, and freshly chopped parsley into the batter, ensuring each ingredient is thoroughly coated and distributed evenly.
  5. Transfer the vegetable-laden mixture into a generously greased baking dish, spreading it uniformly to promote consistent cooking.
  6. Generously sprinkle grated cheese across the surface, creating a delectable golden topping.
  7. Position the baking dish in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for approximately 40 minutes, monitoring until the top achieves a beautiful golden color and vegetables reach a tender consistency.
  8. Allow the Mediterranean vegetable bake to rest and slightly cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, which helps the dish set and enhances flavor integration.

Notes

  • Swap dairy milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or soy milk for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Use gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Enhance flavor by adding dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the batter for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Customize vegetable combinations based on seasonal availability or personal preferences, keeping the overall proportions consistent.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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