Fresh Vegetable Bake with a Cheesy Twist

Looking for a wholesome, satisfying, and cheesy dish packed with fresh vegetables? This Fresh Vegetable Bake with a Cheesy Twist is the perfect recipe. Whether you’re planning a hearty side dish or a light main course, this vegetable bake is a crowd-pleaser. With its layers of colorful veggies and gooey cheese, it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 cup sliced zucchini
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Prepare the vegetables. Wash and chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Blanch the broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the creamy base. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the bake. Layer the blanched vegetables, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream mixture evenly over the vegetables.
5. Add the cheesy twist. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top. For added texture, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
6. Bake. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Cool and serve. Allow the vegetable bake to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Notes

• Vegetable Options: Feel free to use other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus depending on your preferences or seasonal availability.
• Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Make It Crispy: For an even crispier top, broil the bake for 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the vegetable bake a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Simply omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Q: What protein can I add to this recipe?
A: Grilled chicken, crumbled bacon, or cooked ground turkey are great additions to make this bake a heartier main dish.

Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Omit the breadcrumbs and replace the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired bake.

This Fresh Vegetable Bake with a Cheesy Twist is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and rich, cheesy taste, it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this bake delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. Try it today and enjoy the delicious simplicity of fresh vegetables and gooey cheese baked to perfection!