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Rustic Vegetable Bake

This vegetable bake features a medley of imperfectly cut vegetables roasted until tender and caramelized, topped with crispy breadcrumbs and cheese for added texture. It combines simple, hearty ingredients with minimal fuss, resulting in a warm, inviting dish with rustic charm and hearty appeal. The final appearance is vibrant, with golden edges and bubbling topping inviting you to dig in.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: comfort food
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil for tossing vegetables
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, greens
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese grated, optional
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs toasted for crunch
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped, optional
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Ovenproof dish
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). In a large mixing bowl, toss your chopped vegetables with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Spread the coated vegetables in a single layer in your ovenproof dish, making sure they’re well spaced for even roasting. Place the dish in the oven and roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are caramelized and vegetables are tender.
  3. While the vegetables roast, toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Mix the grated cheese, toasted breadcrumbs, and chopped herbs in a small bowl.
  4. Once the vegetables are tender and caramelized, sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the dish.
  5. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and crisp, with a golden-brown color.
  6. Remove the vegetable bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle. Serve warm, garnished with a few extra herbs if desired.

Notes

Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables and herbs. For a vegan version, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Leftovers reheat well in the oven for a crispy crust.