Are you craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's bursting with fresh Mediterranean goodness? Look no further! This Briam recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, is a simple yet stunning dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend gathering. Briam, a classic Provençal vegetable bake, is all about showcasing the natural sweetness and flavors of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection. It’s one of those easy recipes that tastes incredibly delicious, making it a favorite in our household and a go-to for healthy meals.
Ingredients for a Delicious Briam
This recipe is easily adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand, so feel free to experiment! This ingredient list provides a great starting point for your homemade cooking adventure.
- 1 large aubergine (eggplant), roughly chopped
- 2 courgettes (zucchini), roughly chopped
- 1 red onion, roughly chopped
- 2 red peppers, roughly chopped
- 2 yellow peppers, roughly chopped
- 400g cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
This easy recipe is straightforward and simple to follow, even for beginner cooks.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/Gas Mark 6). This ensures your vegetables roast evenly and achieve that beautiful tender-crisp texture.
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and roughly chop all the vegetables. Don't worry about making them perfectly uniform; rustic is best for Briam!
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss all the chopped vegetables with olive oil, crushed garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well coated.
- Roast: Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a large baking tray. Roasting in a single layer allows for even browning and crisping.
- Bake: Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Give them a good toss halfway through to ensure even cooking. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your vegetables.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the Briam from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This delicious dish is fantastic on its own, as a side dish, or as a part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Briam
- Don't overcrowd the baking tray: Ensure the vegetables are in a single layer for optimal roasting. If necessary, use two baking trays.
- Use good quality olive oil: The flavor of the olive oil significantly impacts the final taste of the Briam.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Season generously throughout the cooking process. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like butternut squash, potatoes, or fennel for a twist on this classic recipe.
- Herbs are your friend: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique flavor profile.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Briam: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Briam: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the vegetables before serving for added brightness.
- Feta Briam: Crumble some feta cheese over the vegetables during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a salty and tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This nutritious dish is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. The exact nutritional value will vary depending on the specific vegetables used and their quantities. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Briam recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean dish!