Are you looking for a dish that’s healthy, versatile, and full of vibrant flavors? The Mixed Vegetable Bake is your answer. This colorful casserole is packed with fresh vegetables, lightly seasoned, and baked to perfection with a golden Parmesan crust. It’s a satisfying way to incorporate more veggies into your diet, and it works as a main dish or a side. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner.
Why You’ll Love Mixed Vegetable Bake
There’s something magical about the simplicity of a vegetable bake. The combination of roasted vegetables, creamy eggs, and savory Parmesan creates a dish that’s both hearty and healthy. It’s perfect for all occasions—breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a potluck. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
Ingredients for Mixed Vegetable Bake
Main Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- ½ cup green peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Protein | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Total Fat | 10g |
Fiber | 4g |
How to Make Mixed Vegetable Bake
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized casserole dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Zucchini
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Stir in the chopped zucchini and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Steam the Vegetables
Steam the carrots, corn, cauliflower, and green peas for 5-8 minutes until tender but not mushy. If you don’t have a steamer, you can boil the vegetables in a pot with a small amount of water, then drain them well.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the sautéed onions and zucchini, steamed vegetables, and fresh spinach to the bowl. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the vegetable and egg mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Let the Mixed Vegetable Bake cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Why This Recipe Works
- Versatility: You can use virtually any vegetables you like, making this dish perfect for cleaning out your fridge.
- Nutritional Balance: The combination of protein-rich eggs, fiber-packed vegetables, and calcium-loaded Parmesan makes this a complete meal.
- Ease of Preparation: The steps are straightforward, and the oven does most of the work.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a dish that even picky eaters will enjoy, thanks to the creamy texture and cheesy topping.
Tips for Perfect Mixed Vegetable Bake
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh veggies provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen vegetables work in a pinch—just thaw and drain them well.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bake time to prevent the casserole from becoming dry.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try swapping Parmesan for cheddar, feta, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Serve alongside a simple green salad or a slice of crusty bread.
- As a Side: Pair with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or roasted tofu for a balanced meal.
- For Meal Prep: Store portions in airtight containers for quick, healthy lunches during the week.
FAQs About Mixed Vegetable Bake
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Let the bake cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
4. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
5. What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
Bell peppers, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and broccoli are great additions or substitutions.
6. Can I add meat to the bake?
Of course! Cooked, diced chicken or crumbled sausage can be mixed in for added protein.
Why You Should Make Mixed Vegetable Bake Today
The Mixed Vegetable Bake is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of wholesome, flavorful ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, or a make-ahead meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.
So preheat your oven, gather your vegetables, and get ready to enjoy a casserole that’s delicious, versatile, and packed with nutrients. One bite, and you’ll see why this dish deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
PrintVegan Mixed Vegetable Gratin
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Mixed Vegetable Bake is a wholesome, colorful dish perfect for any time of day. Packed with a medley of fresh vegetables, protein-rich eggs, and topped with golden Parmesan cheese, it’s a healthy and delicious way to enjoy a variety of veggies. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this casserole is as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- ½ cup green peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized casserole dish with olive oil or nonstick spray. - Sauté the Onions and Zucchini:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the zucchini and cook for another 3-5 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat. - Steam the Vegetables:
Steam the carrots, corn, cauliflower, and green peas for 5-8 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp. Alternatively, you can boil them in a pot with a small amount of water, then drain well. - Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the sautéed onions and zucchini, steamed vegetables, and fresh spinach. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined. - Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the vegetable and egg mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. - Bake:
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the top is golden brown. - Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy a delightful mix of flavors and textures!
Notes
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes work well too.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap Parmesan with cheddar, feta, or a dairy-free alternative to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the dish the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh the next day for an easy meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American