A Colorful, Nutrient-Packed Dish That’s Easy to Make
This Healthy Vegetable Casserole is a vibrant mix of zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and onions, roasted to tender perfection with simple seasonings. Lightly seasoned with garlic, paprika, and herbs—it’s a delicious way to eat your veggies without any guilt.
Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or as a side dish that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🌈 Colorful Veggie Mix: Zucchini, red and yellow peppers, carrots, and onions make every bite exciting.
- 🧄 Garlic & Herb Flavor: Salt, paprika, and garlic powder bring out natural sweetness and depth.
- ⏱️ Quick & Simple: Just chop, toss, bake, and broil—no fancy tools needed.
- 🥣 Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free: No dairy, no gluten—ideal for most diets.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at potlucks, weeknight meals, or as a healthy lunch.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Veggies:
- 2 zucchinis , chopped into bite-sized pieces (about 2 cups)
- 1 red onion , sliced into thin half-rings (or shallots for milder flavor)
- 1 carrot , grated or julienned (adds color and crunch)
- 1 red bell pepper , sliced into thin strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper , sliced into thin strips
- 3 cloves garlic , finely chopped (or 1 tsp garlic paste)
For Seasoning:
- Salt, to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (smoked adds extra depth)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (or fresh garlic for stronger flavor)
- Optional:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of chili flakes (for heat)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (adds earthy richness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Veggies
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) .
Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized, uniform pieces for even roasting.
Place in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Season Like a Pro
Add:
- Garlic
- Salt
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
Toss everything together with your hands—this ensures every piece gets evenly coated.
Optional: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning , chili flakes , or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Step 3: Bake Covered for Tenderness
Transfer seasoned veggies to a large baking dish or sheet pan in an even layer.
Cover tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and ensure even baking.
Bake for 25–30 minutes , or until vegetables are fork-tender and fragrant.
Step 4: Broil for Golden Crispness
Remove the foil and place the baking dish under the broiler for 5–10 minutes , watching closely.
This gives the top a light golden finish and a bit of crisp texture—without overcooking the inside.
Step 5: Rest & Serve Warm
Let the casserole cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving.
This allows the flavors to settle and prevents burning your tongue on steamy bites.
Serve warm as a:
- Standalone vegetarian main
- Side dish to grilled chicken or tofu
- Tasty addition to grain bowls or wraps
Each bite brings together:
- Sweet, caramelized bell peppers
- Tender, juicy zucchini
- Crunchy, golden edges and tops
- And that classic herb-garlic finish
Tips for Success:
- 🥣 Use Cold Hands: Helps toss veggies without sticking.
- 🧂 Add Acid for Brightness: Squeeze lemon juice or balsamic vinegar on top after baking.
- 🌱 Boost Nutrition: Stir in chickpeas, lentils, or quinoa before baking for extra protein.
- 🍋 Fresh Herbs Finish: Garnish with basil, parsley, or dill before serving.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Keeps well refrigerated for 3–4 days—great for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with grilled salmon, quinoa, or hummus for a full meal.
- Great on its own with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tahini drizzle.
- Ideal with crusty bread and a green salad for a light dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings – approximate):
(Without optional sides – regular ingredients used)
- Calories: ~80 kcal
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~12g
- Fat: ~3g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~6g
This Healthy Vegetable Casserole proves that vegetables can be the star of the plate without feeling like a side note. With its colorful medley, bold seasoning, and perfect balance of textures—it’s a must-bake for anyone who loves wholesome, flavorful dishes.
