Chef's Favorite Baked Veggie Dish (Easy Weeknight Meal)

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat mozzarella

💰Cheaper: cheddar cheese

Low-fat mozzarella reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: asiago cheese

Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free option with a cheesy flavor.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is a more budget-friendly cooking oil.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: ground oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Ground oats provide a healthier, gluten-free option.

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Cut red peppers into large petals, removing white ribs. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 25 minutes until caramelized.

Peel most of the skin from the aubergines, leaving some on. Slice into ¼–½ inch rounds. Lay on a tray with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Slice courgettes on a slight bias, same thickness. Season with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Roast aubergine and courgette for 15–25 minutes, until lightly golden and tender.

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

Add diced red onion and sweat until translucent (no heavy browning).

Add garlic and cook briefly.

Pour in puréed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper.

Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Slice Roma tomatoes to match the size of other vegetables.

Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Lower oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).

Spoon a thin layer of tomato sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.

Layer in this order: Sauce, Aubergine, Ricotta, Parmesan, Basil, Sauce, Red peppers, Ricotta, basil, sauce, Courgettes, Repeat layers until near the top.

Finish with ricotta, parmesan, basil, and finally the marinated tomatoes (plus their juices). Drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30–45 minutes, until the top is caramelized and bubbling.

Let rest 15–20 minutes before serving so the layers set properly.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens