Vegetable Roll

Delicious vegetable roll - a recipe that combines the flavor of meat with the richness of vegetable taste, perfect for a festive meal or a comforting dinner. This roll is not only appetizing but also an excellent way to add vegetables to your daily diet, being a healthy and nutrient-rich choice. Let's discover together how to prepare this simple yet impressive recipe!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g pork tenderloin
- 100 g champignon mushrooms
- 100 g wild mushrooms (or other seasonal mushrooms)
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 leek
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- A handful of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil

Short history of the recipe
Meat rolls have a long-standing tradition in world cuisine, prepared in various forms and combinations. They are often associated with festive meals due to their impressive appearance and blended flavors. This vegetable roll is a modern variant that adds health and color, transforming a simple meat dish into a true delicacy.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by cleaning the pork tenderloin from skin and tendons. Wash it well under cold running water and pat it dry with a paper towel. This will help achieve a juicy roll.

2. Unrolling the meat:
Use a sharp knife to cut the tenderloin lengthwise without cutting all the way through. The idea is to obtain a large piece of meat that you can unfold like a book. Cover the tenderloin with plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound it, making it even and thinner.

3. Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Rub the tenderloin with this mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. The thyme adds a subtle yet distinctive flavor that will complement the vegetables in the filling.

4. Preparing the filling:
In a pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the finely chopped leek until it becomes transparent. Then add the diced bell pepper and sliced mushrooms. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Finally, add the grated carrot, salt, and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Mix well and let the filling cool slightly.

5. Assembling the roll:
Lay the pork tenderloin on a clean surface and evenly cover it with the vegetable filling. Use a spatula to spread the filling, leaving a margin of about 2 cm. Then, carefully start rolling the meat from the side closest to you. Make sure the filling does not spill out. Once you have a tight roll, secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

6. Baking:
Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and place it in a baking dish. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the roll for 45-50 minutes. About 10 minutes before it’s done, unwrap the foil to allow the roll to brown nicely.

7. Serving:
After baking, let the roll rest for a few minutes. Then slice it and serve it alongside a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the meat: Pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use chicken or turkey to reduce calories.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with tofu or seitan, adding spices to enhance the flavor.
- Side dishes: The roll pairs well with a chilled dry white wine or fresh lemonade, which will balance the intense flavors of the meat and vegetables.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I prepare the roll in advance? Yes, you can make it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, you can bake it directly.
- What vegetables can I use in the filling? Besides those mentioned, you can add zucchini, spinach, or even olives for an extra flavor boost.
- How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be kept in the fridge wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

The vegetable roll is a versatile and colorful dish that will delight both family and guests. With each bite, you will enjoy the perfect combination of juicy meat and tender vegetables, all enveloped in a delicious aroma. Enjoy your meal!