Baked Eggplant & Vegetable Medley

A Light and Flavorful Dish That Makes Vegetables Shine!

If you’ve got an eggplant and a few fresh vegetables on hand, you’re just steps away from creating this vibrant, nourishing dish. This colorful bake is perfect for lunch or dinner and pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice (especially if you try the hot water trick shared below!).

Even if vegetables aren’t usually your thing, this savory, herb-kissed recipe will win you over. It’s packed with texture, cheesy comfort, and natural sweetness from roasted veggies. Best of all? It’s simple, beautiful, and satisfying.

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Time Required:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Resting Time (eggplant): 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes

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Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 0.5 cm rounds

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced

• 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced

• 1 medium potato, peeled and sliced

• 1 red onion, sliced

• 100 g cheese, thinly sliced (mozzarella, gouda, or provolone work well)

• 50 g breadcrumbs

• 30 g grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt, to taste

• Paprika, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• Italian dried herbs, to taste (oregano, thyme, basil)

• Olive oil, as needed

Optional seasoning boost:

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp dried rosemary, crushed

• 1 tbsp olive oil, to mix with above (see “Kitchen Tip”)

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Preparation Method:

1. Prep the Eggplant:

Slice the eggplant into 0.5 cm thick rounds. Place in a colander or bowl, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let it sit for 15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and any bitterness.

Kitchen Tip: After 15 minutes, pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove the released water.

2. Slice the Other Vegetables:

While the eggplant rests, slice the zucchini, tomatoes, potato, and red onion to about the same thickness (0.5 cm). Consistent sizing helps them cook evenly.

3. Make the Seasoned Crumb Topping:

In a small bowl, mix:

• Breadcrumbs

• Grated Parmesan

• Paprika

• Black pepper

• Italian herbs

Stir until combined. Set aside.

4. Layering Time:

Grease a baking dish (preferably glass or ceramic) generously with olive oil. Begin stacking slices of vegetables and cheese, upright and alternating—like a colorful spiral or stacked rainbow. Think: eggplant, zucchini, tomato, potato, onion, cheese… then repeat.

Fill the dish snugly until it’s packed with layered slices.

5. Season & Top:

Drizzle olive oil over the arranged vegetables. Sprinkle the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture evenly on top.

Flavor Boost: Mix 2 bay leaves, crushed rosemary, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Drizzle this mixture over the vegetables for a fragrant, herby touch.

6. Bake:

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F). Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until:

• Vegetables are tender

• Top is golden and slightly crisp

• Cheese is melted and bubbly

Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with steamed basmati or jasmine rice.

• Add a side of yogurt sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.

• Pair with toasted garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

• For a heartier dinner, serve alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or baked fish.

Chef’s Rice Tip: Add hot water to your rice while cooking (instead of cold). It helps speed up absorption, makes fluffier grains, and is a restaurant trick for tastier results!

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Storage Tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in a microwave or a 170°C (340°F) oven until warm.

• Not ideal for freezing due to the water content in the vegetables.

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Bonus Tip: How to Keep Lemons Fresh Longer

1. Store whole lemons in airtight bags in the fridge.

2. Alternatively, place them in a glass jar filled with water in the refrigerator.

3. For cut lemons, cover tightly with plastic wrap or place cut-side down in a bowl with a bit of water.

4. You can also freeze lemon juice in an ice cube tray!

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Final Thoughts:

This recipe is a celebration of humble ingredients, transformed into something beautiful, nourishing, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re making this as a vegetarian main or a hearty side dish, it’s guaranteed to brighten your table and your taste buds.

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Tags: #Vegetarian #Healthy #BakedVegetables #CheesyVeggieBake #LunchIdeas #EasyDinner #GlutenOptional