Oven-roasted vegetables

Oven-Roasted Vegetables - a Simple and Delicious Recipe

Who doesn't love the aroma of roasted vegetables, enriched with spices? This oven-roasted vegetable recipe is not only a healthy choice but also an explosion of flavors and colors that will bring a smile to your face. Perfect as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course, our recipe is simple, quick, and full of nutrients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 large potato (approximately 250 g)
- 1 large eggplant (approximately 300 g)
- 2 medium tomatoes (approximately 200 g)
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow for a vibrant color)
- 1 large carrot (approximately 150 g)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Dried basil (1-2 tablespoons, to taste)

Ingredient details:
Fresh vegetables are the key to a successful recipe. Choose seasonal vegetables, as they are tastier and more nutritious. The potato adds substance, the eggplant offers a creamy texture, and the tomatoes add a juicy note. The sweet bell peppers contribute to a balanced flavor, while the carrot adds natural sweetness.

Step-by-step guide:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
- Start by peeling the potato and carrot. Wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities.
- Cut the potato into equal cubes of about 2 cm, so they cook evenly.
- The eggplant can be cut into similar-sized cubes. If preferred, you can let it sit for 10-15 minutes sprinkled with salt to remove its bitterness.
- Slice the carrot into thin rounds, and cut the bell pepper into strips.
- Cut the tomatoes into large pieces, about 4-5 cm.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
- In a baking dish, add all the chopped vegetables.
- Drizzle with olive oil or sunflower oil, then season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
- Mix well so that all the vegetables are evenly coated with oil and spices. This step is essential for achieving an intense flavor.

3. Baking the vegetables:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Place the dish in the oven and let the vegetables bake for 35-40 minutes. It’s important to stir the vegetables halfway through the baking time to ensure they cook evenly.
- Check if the vegetables are done by piercing them with a fork; they should be soft and slightly browned.

4. Serving:
- Once the vegetables are roasted, remove the dish from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- You can serve them warm as a side dish alongside grilled meat, or as a vegetarian main course, drizzled with a splash of olive oil or balsamic vinegar.
- A delicious idea is to serve them with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top, adding a salty and creamy note.

Useful tips:
- Customizing the recipe: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or onions. You can also add fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to intensify the flavors.
- Storing: If you have leftover vegetables, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheated, they are just as delicious.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, but they will need to be completely thawed before baking, as the cooking time may vary.
- How can I make the vegetables crispier? You can add the vegetables to the oven without oil on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. You can also use a grill for the last 5 minutes of baking.

Nutritional benefits:
This oven-roasted vegetable recipe is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Vegetables are an excellent source of antioxidants, which help maintain a healthy immune system. Additionally, this recipe is low in calories, containing about 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used.

Possible variations:
- Add a teaspoon of sweet or hot paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Turn the recipe into a warm salad by adding cooked chickpeas or quinoa for an extra protein boost.
- Use a soy and honey marinade for a unique Asian flavor.

Personal story:
This oven-roasted vegetable recipe is one of my fondest childhood memories. I remember how my mother would prepare them on Sundays, and the aroma of roasted vegetables would fill the entire house. It was a moment of family reunion, where everyone contributed, and in the end, we would sit together at the table, savoring each bite. I hope this recipe brings the same joy to your home!

Once you try this oven-roasted vegetable recipe, you will discover that it is much more than just a simple dish. It is an invitation to savor natural flavors, experiment with fresh ingredients, and create memories with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!