Vegetable Medley with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. Prepare the Eggplant:
Slice the eggplant and sprinkle salt over it. Let it sit for 15 minutes to draw out any bitterness.
After 15 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove the excess salt and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Finely chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper.
Peel and dice the tomatoes.
Slice the mushrooms.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the chopped carrot and bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the diced tomatoes. To soften the tomatoes, pour a bit of boiling water over them in the pan and cook for about 10 minutes.
4. Add the Eggplant and Mushrooms:
Add the prepared eggplant slices and sliced mushrooms to the pan.
Stir well to combine all the vegetables, allowing them to cook together.
5. Simmer with Milk Cream:
Pour 350 ml of milk cream into the pan.
Season with salt and ground pepper to taste.
Cover the pan and let it simmer for 10 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Finish and Serve:
Add the chopped parsley to the pan and stir well.
Continue to cook over low heat for another 10 minutes.
Grate 200 grams of Parmesan cheese and stir it into the mixture until melted and well combined.
7. Serve:
Serve the dish hot, garnished with a little extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Add a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Cooking Tips:
For extra flavor, roast the eggplant slices in the oven for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the pan.
Use a variety of mushrooms for a richer, more complex flavor.
Substitute the milk cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Benefits:
Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Milk Cream: Provides calcium and protein.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a good source of protein and calcium.
Overall: This dish is a balanced meal that includes healthy fats, proteins, and a variety of essential nutrients.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially the cream and cheese, are gluten-free.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or quinoa.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy Parmesan sauce is irresistible.
Nutritious: A well-balanced dish that offers a variety of nutrients.
Versatile: Can be adapted to fit different dietary needs and preferences.
Easy to Make: Simple steps and ingredients make this a great choice for any cook.
Conclusion:
This Vegetable Medley with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that will quickly become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a vibrant addition to your dinner table, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and the health benefits that come with every bite!