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If you are looking for a simple yet hearty dish that combines fresh vegetables, rich cheeses, and fragrant herbs, this vegetable and cheese bake is the perfect recipe. It’s easy to make, full of vibrant flavors, and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.
Why This Vegetable and Cheese Bake Stands Out
This dish is more than just a mix of ingredients; it is a well-balanced combination of textures and flavors that come together beautifully when baked. The sweetness of the peppers and tomatoes complements the saltiness of the feta cheese, while the mozzarella adds a creamy, golden crust. Fresh dill enhances the aroma, giving the dish a refreshing touch.
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a main dish, a side, or even a quick snack. You can also customize it based on your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a protein-rich meal or someone trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this dish offers a perfect solution.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
One of the best things about this vegetable and cheese bake is its adaptability to different meals and events. Here are some ways you can serve and enjoy this dish:
1. A Nutritious Breakfast Option
Starting your day with a protein-rich meal can help keep you full and energized. The combination of eggs, feta, and mozzarella provides a good amount of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a smoothie for a well-rounded breakfast.
2. A Light but Satisfying Lunch or Dinner
This dish works perfectly as a standalone meal when paired with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup. The cheese and eggs offer enough protein to keep you satisfied, while the vegetables provide fiber and essential nutrients. For a heartier meal, you can serve it with whole-grain bread or a side of roasted potatoes.
3. A Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Dish
If you’re hosting a brunch, this dish is an excellent choice. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and can be served warm or at room temperature. Guests will love its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, making it a guaranteed hit on your brunch table.
4. A Healthy Snack for Any Time of the Day
When you need a quick and nutritious snack, a slice of this vegetable and cheese bake is a great option. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthier alternative to processed snacks.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Chicken eggs | 2 |
Vegetable oil | 50 ml |
Milk | 100 ml |
Baking powder | 5 g |
Flour | 130 g |
Raw sweet yellow pepper | 1 |
Raw sweet red pepper | 1 |
Tomato | 1 |
Green olives | 50 g |
Feta cheese | 100 g |
Dill (fresh) | A bunch |
Hard mozzarella cheese | 100 g |
Butter | 20 g |
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- Chop the vegetables: Dice the yellow and red peppers, tomato, and green olives into small pieces.
- Prepare the cheese: Crumble the feta cheese and grate the mozzarella.
- Finely chop the dill and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until slightly frothy.
- Add the vegetable oil and milk, whisking until fully combined.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, mixing until smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Gently fold in the chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and dill into the batter.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 10 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Fats | 15 g |
Saturated Fats | 6 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugar | 4 g |
Calcium | 180 mg |
Iron | 1.5 mg |
Health Benefits of This Dish
This vegetable and cheese bake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that offer numerous health benefits. Here’s why you should add this dish to your regular meal rotation:
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1. High in Protein and Healthy Fats
The eggs, feta cheese, and mozzarella provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. The healthy fats from cheese and eggs help keep you full longer and support brain function.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants
Vegetables like peppers and tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune health and skin health. These vegetables also contain antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.
3. Supports Digestion and Gut Health
The fiber from vegetables and olives helps improve digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome. A diet rich in fiber can also help with weight management and reduce the risk of digestive issues.
4. Strengthens Bones and Teeth
Dairy products like feta and mozzarella cheese are excellent sources of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. The combination of dairy and eggs also provides vitamin D, which enhances calcium absorption in the body.
5. Low in Processed Ingredients
Unlike store-bought baked goods or frozen meals, this homemade dish is free from preservatives and artificial ingredients. It’s a wholesome, clean-eating option that you can feel good about.
Customization Ideas to Suit Your Taste
While this recipe is already packed with delicious ingredients, you can easily modify it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ways to customize this vegetable and cheese bake:
1. Add More Vegetables
If you want to increase the vegetable content, consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. These vegetables blend well with the existing ingredients and enhance the nutritional value.
2. Try Different Cheeses
While feta and mozzarella create a great combination, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for a unique twist. Each cheese brings a different texture and flavor to the dish.
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3. Make It Spicy
For those who love a bit of heat, add some chopped chili peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This will give the dish an extra kick without overpowering the other flavors.
4. Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Flour
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can swap regular flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
5. Include Some Protein-Rich Additions
To make this dish even more filling, consider adding shredded chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas. These additions boost the protein content and make the dish more satisfying.
FAQs About This Vegetable and Cheese Bake
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake this dish ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
2. Can I Freeze It for Later?
Absolutely! Once baked, let the dish cool completely, then cut it into portions and store them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
3. What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup. It also goes well with whole-grain bread or a light yogurt dip.
4. Can I Make This Recipe Without Eggs?
Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) or a store-bought egg replacer. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
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5. How Do I Make It Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free version, replace feta and mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives. You can also use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Nutritious Dish for Any Occasion
This vegetable and cheese bake is a wonderful combination of flavors, textures, and nutrients. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or as a healthy snack, it offers a satisfying and wholesome experience. The blend of fresh vegetables, rich cheeses, and aromatic herbs makes it an irresistible dish that can be customized to suit different dietary needs.
With its ease of preparation and versatile serving options, this dish is a great addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or guests, it’s bound to be a favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal that is as enjoyable to eat as it is easy to make!
PrintA Delightful Vegetable and Cheese Bake: A Perfect Balance of Flavor and Nutrition
A simple yet flavorful vegetable and cheese bake that combines fresh peppers, tomatoes, olives, and aromatic dill with rich feta and mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light meal. Enjoy a delicious balance of textures and flavors in every bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 chicken eggs
- 50 ml vegetable oil
- 100 ml milk
- 5g baking powder
- 130g flour
- 1 raw sweet yellow pepper, diced
- 1 raw sweet red pepper, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 50g green olives, sliced
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- A bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- 100g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
- 20g butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy, then add vegetable oil and milk. Mix well.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Fold in the diced peppers, tomato, olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped dill. Mix gently to combine.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
- If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced chili.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.