Roasted vegetables with tahini sauce

Delicious roasted vegetable recipe with sesame sauce: a perfect choice for fasting

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Are you looking for a simple and quick recipe that is both healthy and delicious? Then roasted vegetables with sesame sauce are the perfect choice! This recipe is not only vegan but also very economical, ideal for fasting days or for a light and nutritious meal. I will guide you step by step to achieve a tasty dish full of nutrients and flavors!

A brief history of sesame sauce

Sesame sauce, also known as tahini, has a rich history and is used in various culinary cultures to add a creamy note and a distinct flavor. It is made from toasted sesame seeds, which are ground into a fine paste. Moreover, tahini is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and healthy fats, making it an essential ingredient in many vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Ingredients

For the vegetables:
- 1 thin zucchini
- 1 medium eggplant
- 4 mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 100 g smoked tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil, as preferred

For the sauce:
- 100 g sesame seeds
- 3 tablespoons oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley

Preparation instructions

1. Preparing the vegetables:

Start by washing the vegetables under a stream of cold water, ensuring they are clean. If you prefer, you can peel them, but I recommend leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Then, slice the zucchini and eggplant into pieces about 0.5 cm thick, and the mushrooms into thin slices.

2. Preheating the oven:

Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). This will help the vegetables bake evenly and become golden and delicious.

3. Preparing the vegetables for the oven:

In a large bowl, combine the sliced vegetables. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and the soy sauce, mixing well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a heat-resistant dish and spread it evenly.

4. Tofu:

Cut the smoked tofu into larger cubes and add it over the vegetables in the heat-resistant dish. The tofu will not only add protein to this dish but will also absorb the flavors of the vegetables and sauce.

5. Baking:

Place the dish with vegetables and tofu in the oven and let it bake for 25 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the vegetables do not burn, stirring gently with a spatula.

6. Preparing the sesame sauce:

While the vegetables are in the oven, you can prepare the sesame sauce. In a dry skillet over low heat, add the sesame seeds. Let them toast for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until they become golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!

Once the seeds have cooled, transfer them to a blender. Add 3 tablespoons of oil, the peeled garlic clove, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend everything until you achieve a smooth paste. If the sauce is too thick, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of water to reach the desired consistency. Finally, finely chop the parsley and add it to the sauce, mixing well.

7. Assembling the dish:

When the vegetables are baked and fragrant, remove them from the oven. Place generous portions of vegetables on plates and pour the sesame sauce over the top. You can garnish with a few toasted sesame seeds for a more attractive appearance.

Practical tips

- For an even more intense flavor: you can add spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the vegetable mix before baking.
- Variations: replace the tofu with tempeh or use other seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots. These variations will not only change the flavor but will also add vibrant colors to the plate.
- Serving: this dish pairs perfectly with basmati rice or quinoa to create a complete lunch or dinner. You can also accompany it with iced green tea or a fresh fruit smoothie.

Nutritional information

This recipe is high in fiber and protein, thanks to the vegetables and tofu, and is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Additionally, the sesame sauce provides healthy fats, essential for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient option, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before baking.
- How can I store the sesame sauce? The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to mix it well before using.
- Is this recipe suitable for children? Yes, roasted vegetables are often more appealing to children, and the sesame sauce can be adapted according to their preferences.

So now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to enjoy this simple and delicious roasted vegetable recipe with sesame sauce. Whether you prepare it for yourself or serve it at a meal with friends, it will surely be a success! Cooked with passion, every dish becomes a delicious story you can share. Enjoy your meal!