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Vegetable and Mozzarella Bake

Vegetable and Mozzarella Bake

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For the Sauce

  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Topping

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make Vegetable and Mozzarella Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the zucchini, eggplant, and bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  2. Spread half of the sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.

Step 4: Layer the Bake

  1. Spread the cooked vegetables evenly over the tomato sauce.
  2. Pour the remaining tomato sauce on top.
  3. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over everything.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

  1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  2. If you like extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

🥖 Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
🍝 Pair with pasta or quinoa for a hearty dish.
🥗 Enjoy with a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 2 minutes.
  • Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This Vegetable and Mozzarella Bake is a crowd-pleaser that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this cheesy, veggie-packed dish is sure to impress.

Try it today and let us know how it turns out! 🧀🥦🍅

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