Dive into the heart of Greek cuisine with the delightful "Briami Mystras," a multi-vegetable and herb casserole that promises to tantalize your taste buds! This vibrant dish, bursting with the flavors of eggplant, zucchini, potatoes, and aromatic herbs, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that will leave you craving more. Perfect for both casual family dinners and impressive gatherings, this casserole is a wonderful way to celebrate fresh vegetables in a comforting, hearty style. Ready to transform your kitchen into a Mediterranean paradise? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 eggplant, sliced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 2 potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups spinach
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly under cool running water. Slice the eggplant, zucchinis, and potatoes into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds. Chop the onion into medium-sized pieces and slice the red bell pepper into thin strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all sliced and chopped vegetables, including the spinach. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables, then sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the vegetables to ensure even coating and seasoning.
- Select a large, deep baking dish or casserole dish. Arrange the seasoned vegetables in layers, ensuring an even distribution of different vegetable types throughout the dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a tight seal to help steam and cook the vegetables evenly.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their natural flavors.
- After 1 hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to allow the vegetables to develop a light golden-brown color and slightly crisp edges.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the vegetables to settle and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot as a main vegetarian dish or as a side accompaniment, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Vegetables: The quality of your vegetables makes a significant difference. Opt for fresh, seasonal produce for the best flavor and texture.
- Layering is Key: When arranging the vegetables in the baking dish, try to layer them in a way that allows for even cooking. This helps to ensure that every bite is infused with the delicious flavors of the herbs and olive oil.
- Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as oregano or basil for a unique twist on this traditional dish.
- Don't Rush the Baking: Allowing the casserole to bake covered for the first hour helps to steam the vegetables, making them tender. The final uncovered baking time is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
- Serve with a Twist: For an added touch, serve your Briami Mystras with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese to enhance the dish's creaminess and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
