California Vegetable Bake is a vibrant and wholesome dish that captures the essence of fresh, West Coast produce in a comforting casserole. This recipe features a medley of colorful vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all baked together in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s rich in flavor yet light enough to let the natural tastes of the vegetables shine through. Topped with a layer of melted cheese and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added crunch, this bake is perfect as a vegetarian main course or a hearty side dish. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, California Vegetable Bake is easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavors that will appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for topping)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Transfer the seasoned vegetables to the prepared baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the vegetables.
- Add Toppings:
- If using, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle the mixture over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If the topping needs more browning, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the California Vegetable Bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.
California Vegetable Bake is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables in a warm, comforting casserole. With its cheesy goodness and colorful presentation, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table, making it a perfect choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.
