Crummy Vegetable Bake

Vegetarian Recipe: Crummy Vegetable Bake with Cauliflower, Red Cabbage, Carrots, Yellow Squash, and Spinach

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Crummy Vegetable Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines a variety of colorful vegetables with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. This recipe is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

History

The origins of Crummy Vegetable Bake are not well-documented, but it is likely that this dish has been enjoyed by home cooks for generations. The combination of steamed vegetables and a crispy breadcrumb topping is a classic way to prepare a flavorful and satisfying vegetable dish.

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower, cored and broken into florets
0.25 head red cabbage, cored and shredded
6 medium carrots, diced
2 medium yellow squash, cut into 0.5-inch cubes
2 cups fresh spinach, shredded
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
6 slices whole grain bread
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil + 1 tsp sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, for tossing veggies in.

How to prepare

Steam all vegetables, except spinach, for 10 minutes or until they are tender but not mushy.
Add spinach for the last minute to wilt it.
In a heavy skillet, heat 4 tbsp of olive oil.
Add the garlic and sauté briefly.
Process the bread crumbs in a food processor or blender until they have a cornmeal consistency.
Add the processed bread crumbs to the garlic and olive oil, and toss until all the oil is absorbed into the bread.
Toss the steamed vegetables with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, toss them with half of the crumb mixture.
Spread the vegetable mixture in a shallow oven-safe pan.
Top with the remaining crumb mixture and drizzle with the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the topping is browned.
Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the vegetable mix for added flavor and texture.
Use different types of bread for the breadcrumb topping, such as whole wheat or sourdough.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to steam the vegetables until they are just tender, as overcooking can result in mushy vegetables.

- The breadcrumb topping can be customized with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- Keep an eye on the dish while it is baking to prevent the topping from burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crummy Vegetable Bake as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it as a main dish with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the vegetables helps to retain their nutrients and vibrant colors.

- Sautéing the garlic before adding the breadcrumbs adds a rich flavor to the topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this dish.

- Substitute other vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetable mixture and breadcrumb topping ahead of time and assemble the dish just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Crummy Vegetable Bake in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crummy Vegetable Bake with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 8g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 6g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 150% DV

- Vitamin C: 80% DV

- Calcium: 10% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains wheat (breadcrumbs)

Summary

Crummy Vegetable Bake is a nutrient-rich dish that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet in a delicious and satisfying way.

Summary

Crummy Vegetable Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. With a colorful mix of vegetables and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Crummy Vegetable Bake. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning how to cook from my own grandmother. She was a fantastic cook, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques in the kitchen. I would spend hours watching her work her magic, amazed at how effortlessly she could transform simple ingredients into delicious meals.

One day, as I was helping her prepare dinner, she pulled out a recipe card from her collection and handed it to me. It was for a dish called Crummy Vegetable Bake. I had never heard of it before, but the name alone piqued my interest. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could tell that this was going to be a special dish.

My grandmother explained to me that she had learned the recipe from a dear friend many years ago. They had shared a love of cooking and would often trade recipes and tips. This particular recipe had become a family favorite, and my grandmother had made it countless times over the years.

I watched closely as my grandmother assembled the dish, layering the vegetables and crumb topping in a baking dish. The aroma that filled the kitchen as it baked in the oven was intoxicating. When it was finally ready, we all gathered around the table to dig in.

The first bite was pure heaven. The vegetables were perfectly cooked, tender and flavorful. The crumb topping added a satisfying crunch that contrasted beautifully with the creamy texture of the dish. I could see why this recipe had become such a beloved staple in our family.

From that day on, Crummy Vegetable Bake became a regular feature on our dinner table. I would often request it for special occasions or when I was feeling nostalgic for my grandmother's cooking. It never failed to bring a smile to my face and warm my heart.

As I grew older and started my own family, I made sure to pass the recipe down to my own children. I wanted them to experience the same joy and comfort that this dish brought me. Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own.

Now, whenever I make Crummy Vegetable Bake, I am transported back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen, watching her work her culinary magic. I can almost hear her voice guiding me through the recipe, her laughter filling the air. It is a recipe that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul.

I am grateful for the memories and traditions that this recipe represents. It is a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring to a family. And I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will feel the same joy and wonder that I did when they taste my version of Crummy Vegetable Bake.