Vegetable Parmesan Bake
Vegetable Parmesan Bake Recipe - Italian Cuisine
Introduction
Vegetable Parmesan Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe combines the flavors of fresh vegetables, whole wheat pasta, and Parmesan cheese to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
History
The Vegetable Parmesan Bake recipe has its roots in traditional Italian cuisine, where pasta dishes are a staple. This modern twist on a classic dish adds a healthy dose of vegetables and whole grains to create a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) thin spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp whole wheat flour
- 1.5 cup nonfat milk
- 3 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1 tsp dried italian herb mix
- 0.5 cup liquid egg substitute or 2 egg whites
- 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
How to prepare
- Mix all ingredients together.
Variations
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Use different vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus.
- Try using different types of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the spaghetti until it is al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Vegetable Parmesan Bake with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Saute the vegetables until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Mix the ingredients together gently to avoid breaking the spaghetti.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use regular white flour instead of whole wheat flour.
- Use regular milk instead of nonfat milk.
- Use whole eggs instead of liquid egg whites.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the Vegetable Parmesan Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Vegetable Parmesan Bake with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dish with a light and crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
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 (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Vegetable Parmesan Bake contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
The Vegetable Parmesan Bake is a carbohydrate-rich dish, with the main source of carbs coming from the whole wheat pasta and vegetables. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
This dish is relatively low in fat, with most of the fat coming from the olive oil and Parmesan cheese. Each serving contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
The Vegetable Parmesan Bake is a good source of protein, with the main sources being the egg whites and Parmesan cheese. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables and whole wheat pasta. It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and wheat (whole wheat flour), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or wheat allergies.
Summary
Overall, Vegetable Parmesan Bake is a well-balanced and nutritious dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
Summary
Vegetable Parmesan Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and cheeses. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal any day of the week!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, just like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook that had been tucked away in the back of my pantry for years. The book belonged to my great-grandmother, who had passed it down to me along with her love for cooking.
As I flipped through the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and landed at my feet. I picked it up and saw that it was a recipe for Vegetable Parmesan Bake. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try.
I gathered all the ingredients I needed - fresh vegetables, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs - and began to chop and sauté and bake. The aroma that filled my kitchen as the dish cooked was intoxicating, and I knew I was onto something special.
When I finally pulled the Vegetable Parmesan Bake out of the oven, it looked and smelled amazing. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste my creation.
As I took my first bite, I was transported back in time to my childhood, when my great-grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen teaching me her favorite recipes. I could almost hear her laughter and feel her gentle touch on my shoulder as I savored each mouthful of the dish.
From that day on, Vegetable Parmesan Bake became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any time I wanted to impress my guests with a delicious and hearty meal.
Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own twist with different vegetables or seasonings. But the heart of the dish remains the same - a comforting and satisfying combination of flavors that never fails to please.
I often think about the journey that this recipe has taken me on. From that dusty old cookbook to the tables of my loved ones, it has brought joy and nourishment to so many. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and create new memories for the future.
As I sit here now, preparing another batch of Vegetable Parmesan Bake for a family dinner, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking that has been passed down through generations. And I know that as long as I continue to share this recipe with others, my great-grandmother's legacy will live on in every bite.
Categories
| Egg Substitute Recipes | Italian Recipes | Parmesan Cheese Recipes | Spaghetti Recipes | Spinach Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes | Whole Wheat Flour Recipes |