This delicious recipe showcases a vibrant medley of baked vegetables coated in a zesty tomato dressing. Perfect as a standalone dish or transformed into a hearty veggie sandwich, this recipe is versatile and full of flavor. Here’s how to prepare both the baked vegetables and how to turn them into a delightful sandwich.
Ingredients for Baked Vegetables:
- 560g eggplant (1 large or 2 medium), sliced
- 300g green bell pepper (1 medium), sliced
- 300g red bell pepper (1 medium), sliced
- 250g onion (1 medium), sliced
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin out the dressing)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (to add zing to the dressing)
Ingredients for Veggie Sandwich:
- Baked vegetables
- Whole grain bread or any bread of your choice
- Optional: cheese (such as mozzarella or vegan cheese)
- Optional: fresh herbs (such as basil or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor)
Instructions for Baked Vegetables:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Wash and slice the eggplant, bell peppers, and onion. Arrange them in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Prepare Tomato Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste, olive oil, vinegar, and water until smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Coat the Vegetables:
- Drizzle the tomato dressing over the sliced vegetables, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake:
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
Instructions for Veggie Sandwich:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Toast the bread slices lightly if desired for added texture and warmth.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Layer the baked vegetables on one slice of bread. If using, add slices of cheese and fresh herbs.
- Top with another slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
- Serve:
- If you added cheese, you might want to place the sandwich back in the oven or on a skillet to melt the cheese slightly.
- Serve the sandwich warm, accompanied by extra baked vegetables on the side or a fresh salad.
Conclusion:
The Baked Vegetables in Zesty Tomato Dressing is a flavorful and healthy choice that can be enjoyed on its own or as a filling for a robust veggie sandwich. This meal is not only satisfying but also adds a beautiful array of colors to your plate, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Enjoy crafting this versatile dish that can cater to both a simple dinner or a packed lunch option!
