Garden Fresh Vegetable Bake

Looking for a delicious way to enjoy the bounty of fresh vegetables from your garden or local farmer’s market? Our Garden Fresh Vegetable Bake with a Cheesy Twist is the perfect solution! Packed with colorful veggies and topped with a creamy cheese mixture, this dish is bursting with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a satisfying main course or a side dish to accompany your favorite protein, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, onion, and minced garlic.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the vegetables evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried basil, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
6. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the vegetables in the baking dish.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables. You can add or substitute veggies like carrots, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to suit your taste preferences.
• For an extra kick of flavor, try adding some minced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
• If you’re short on time, you can use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh. Just be sure to thaw them before using and drain any excess moisture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• To make this recipe keto-friendly, simply omit the onions and use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise. You can also reduce the amount of carrots or omit them altogether to lower the carb count.
• Serve this dish alongside grilled chicken or steak for a satisfying low-carb meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can assemble the vegetable bake ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the dish is cold from the refrigerator.
2. Can I freeze leftovers? While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
3. What can I serve with this vegetable bake? This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also makes a delicious side dish for grilled burgers or sandwiches.
4. Can I use different types of cheese in the cheese mixture? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack, to create your own unique flavor combination.

In conclusion, our Garden Fresh Vegetable Bake with a Cheesy Twist is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for showcasing the vibrant flavors of summer produce. Whether you’re following a vegetarian diet, looking for a tasty side dish, or simply trying to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy cheese topping and hearty assortment of veggies, it’s a satisfying and nutritious option for any occasion. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this delicious recipe a try today!