Mediterranean-Style Vegetables: A Colorful and Flavorful Edible Bouquet
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Description
Indulge in a delightful medley of Mediterranean-style vegetables that not only looks like an edible bouquet on your table but also enchants the palate with its harmonious mingling of flavors. This recipe is a celebration of vibrant colors and fresh tastes, perfect for any gathering or as a beautiful side dish that complements a variety of mains. Prepare to be mesmerized by this simple yet special dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean straight to your dining table.
Recipe Category
- Vegetable
Keywords
Low Protein
Low Cholesterol
Under 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 77.5 |
| Total Fat | 2.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 1175.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.9 g |
| Sugars | 7.2 g |
| Protein | 2.9 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Eggplant |
| 1 | Green Pepper |
| 250 g | Cherry Tomatoes |
| 1 | Zucchini |
| 1 | Fresh Basil Leaf |
| 1/3 cup | Olive Oil |
| 2 tsp | Oregano |
| 2 | Button Mushrooms |
| 90 ml | Balsamic Vinegar |
| 2 tsp | Salt |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a warm 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your vegetables roast evenly and develop that irresistible, caramelized flavor.
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Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into rounds and arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray that has been brushed lightly with olive oil. If you prefer, you can use a non-stick tray and skip the oil altogether. The eggplant will soak up the flavors beautifully regardless.
-
Prepare the Tomatoes: Make cross slits on each cherry tomato. This not only enhances their presentation but also allows them to cook perfectly alongside the eggplant. Place the tomatoes on the tray with the eggplant slices.
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Bake the Vegetables: Brush the eggplant and tomatoes with a little extra olive oil, then place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 minutes, just until the eggplant is tender and the tomatoes start to burst, releasing their juices and sweetness.
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Cool the Vegetables: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the vegetables to cool completely. This step is essential as it enhances their flavors and makes them easier to handle.
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Chop the Eggplant: After cooling, cut the eggplant into strips. This will make it easier to combine with the other vegetables and will create a more appealing presentation.
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Grill the Peppers: Deseed the green pepper and grill it until the skin is charred and blackened. This method adds a smoky flavor to the peppers, elevating the dish. Once charred, wrap the pepper in a damp cloth to steam it slightly, which will make it easier to remove the skin.
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Peel the Pepper: After a few minutes, unwrap the pepper and gently rub off the skin. Chop the grilled pepper into bite-sized pieces.
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Blanch the Zucchini: For the zucchini, place the slices in a bowl and cover them with boiling water for about 1 minute. This quick blanching softens the zucchini while preserving its bright color.
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Shock the Zucchini: After blanching, immediately drain the zucchini and plunge it into a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain again, ensuring no excess water is left.
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Combine the Vegetables: In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped eggplant, grilled pepper, blanched zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Gently toss in the sliced button mushrooms and torn fresh basil leaves.
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Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and remaining olive oil over the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the oregano and salt, then toss everything together gently to ensure even distribution of flavors.
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Let It Marinate: Allow the vegetable medley to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. This resting period allows the flavors to mingle and develop, resulting in a more robust taste.
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Serve: Serve the Mediterranean-style vegetables at room temperature. Their vibrant colors and fresh flavors make them an ideal centerpiece for your table, ready to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean-style vegetable dish is not just a recipe; it is an experience that brings together fresh ingredients and simple preparation methods to create something truly special. Enjoy the process of making it and savor the delightful flavors that come together in this beautiful edible bouquet. Perfect as a side dish or as a light main course, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
