A healthy dish popular in Australian homes is the layered vegetable bake. It uses seasonal ingredients like sweet potatoes, zucchini, and pumpkin that are frequently found on special in the supermarkets, taking advantage of the cost saving and fresh, locally produced veggies. This versatile bake is a great way to use whatever you have in your fridge and transform simple ingredients into a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Loaded with vitamins, fibre, and a touch of indulgence from a golden cheese crust, this dish is both healthy and delicious. Its colourful layers showcase the natural beauty of Australian-grown vegetables, making it a hit for family dinners or when catering to vegetarian guests. Whether enjoyed as a side to a barbecued feast or a standalone meal, this bake embodies the essence of Australian home cooking.
Layered Vegetable Bake Tips
- Slice vegetables thinly and evenly – This ensures the vegetables cook evenly and the layers stay intact when serving. A mandoline slicer can help with this if you have one.
- Precooked harder vegetables – Potatoes and carrots can take longer to cook than other vegetables. Precooking them in boiling water for 5-10 minutes will ensure they soften properly during baking.
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables – Seasonal produce is often ready available, more flavourful and affordable. Swap in vegetables like pumpkin, eggplant or sweet potatoes depending on availability and discounting at supermarkets.
- Layer the vegetables evenly. To create a well cooked dish, make sure each layer is even and packed tightly. This helps with even cooking and keeps the bake from becoming too soggy.
- Season between layers. Don’t forget to sprinkle salt, pepper and herbs between each layer of vegetables. This will enhance the flavour throughout the dish.
- Add breadcrumbs for extra crunch. If you like a bit of texture on top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking. This will give the top a lovely crispy finish.
- Let the bake set before serving. After baking, let the dish cool for about 10 minutes. This helps the layers firm up and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Ingredients
- 2 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 large zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 red capsicum, deseeded and cut into thin strips
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves, washed
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup full cream
- 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
The vegetables can be swapped around subject to your taste or what is available or on special at the supermarket.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and begin by layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom. As an alternative you can place baking paper into a baking dish and start to layer the vegetables in that.
- Add a layer of zucchini slices on top of the potatoes, followed by a layer of carrot, red capsicum, and chopped onion, whatever way you like it.
- Sprinkle a handful of spinach leaves on top of the vegetable layers.
- Repeat the layers until all the vegetables are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
- Pour the cream evenly over the layered vegetables and season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the bake cool for 10 minutes before serving.
This layered vegetable bake provides approximately 4-6 servings, making it an excellent dish for a family dinner or a small gathering. It’s simple, healthy meal that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes by changing up the vegetables or adding extra seasonings. Enjoy!
For more delicious recipes, check out these BellyBelly’s recipes:
Tempting Vegetable Lasagne Recipe
Delicious Potato Bake Recipe
For more information on buying the right mandoline for you, we recommend you review the following; Mandoline Review.
