Oven-roasted vegetables with pork

Oven-Roasted Vegetables with Pork - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Introduction
Are you dreaming of a warm and comforting meal that fills your home with enticing aromas? The recipe for oven-roasted vegetables with pork is the perfect solution! This simple yet flavorful dish combines fresh vegetables with succulent meat, resulting in a meal that will delight your taste buds. Beyond its deliciousness, this recipe stands out for its versatility; you can prepare the same delightful mix of vegetables in a vegetarian version as well. Let’s embark on this culinary journey!

Ingredients
- 500 g pork (preferably shoulder or chop for juiciness)
- 2 medium eggplants
- 2 zucchinis
- 3 bell peppers of different colors (red, yellow, green)
- 3 potatoes (or 3 tomatoes, depending on preference)
- 1 large onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, pepper, thyme (preferably dried), and a little mint
- Water (about 200 ml)

Recipe History
Oven-baked dishes with vegetables and meat are a deeply rooted culinary tradition in many cultures. These recipes have evolved over time, adapting to local and seasonal ingredients. Baking not only enhances flavors but also transforms simple ingredients into true delights. This recipe is perfect for gathering the family around the table and creating unforgettable memories.

Step by Step - Cooking Oven-Roasted Vegetables with Pork

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing all the vegetables, then dry them thoroughly with a paper towel. This step is essential to avoid excess moisture in the dish. Rinse the pork and cut it into large pieces, about 3-4 cm, to ensure even cooking.

2. Chopping the Vegetables
Cut the eggplants and zucchinis into rounds or cubes, the bell peppers into strips, and the potatoes into large cubes. Finely chop the onion, and crush or finely chop the garlic. This variety of shapes will add not only aesthetics but also texture to the dish.

3. Preparing the Baking Tray
In a large baking tray, add the olive oil, then place the pieces of pork. Ensure the oil thoroughly coats the meat for a nice browning.

4. Adding the Vegetables
Add the chopped vegetables to the tray, arranging them evenly. If you choose to use tomatoes, add them at the end, as they cook faster and will turn into a delicious sauce.

5. Seasoning
Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and a little mint over the vegetables and meat. The mint will add a fresh note to the dish, beautifully contrasting with the other flavors. Then, drizzle a little more olive oil for added flavor.

6. Adding Water
Pour water into the tray, being careful not to drown the vegetables but to provide enough liquid for steaming. This will help keep the meat juicy and turn the vegetables into a delicacy.

7. Baking
Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C. Let the dish bake for 2 hours. After the first hour, you can remove the foil to allow the meat to brown.

8. Checking and Serving
After 2 hours, remove the tray from the oven and check if the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked. Serve the dish hot, straight from the tray, for a rustic presentation. You can add a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce for a perfect contrast.

Practical Tips
- If you prefer a heartier version, you can add other vegetables like carrots or celery.
- I recommend choosing pork with a little fat for a more succulent dish.
- If you want to intensify the flavor, marinate the meat in olive oil, garlic, and herbs a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as paprika or oregano, to vary the flavors.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of this recipe contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and meat used. Pork is an excellent source of protein and B vitamins, while the vegetables are rich in fiber and essential nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I adapt the recipe to be vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the pork with tofu or mushrooms, and the result will be just as tasty.

- What side dishes pair well with this dish?
A fresh salad, rice, or homemade bread are excellent options to complement the meal.

- How can I store leftovers?
The dish stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Possible Variations
- You can add feta cheese or mozzarella on top before removing the tray from the oven for a creamy taste.
- Substitute the pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Add olives or capers for a Mediterranean touch.

Serving
I recommend serving the oven-roasted vegetables with pork in a large bowl, alongside a fresh green salad and a glass of white or red wine for a perfect dinner. It can be an ideal dish for a festive meal or a Sunday family lunch.

Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the final result! This recipe for oven-roasted vegetables with pork will not only delight your taste buds but also bring warmth to your heart. Bon appétit!