Sunday Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake

Name: Sunday Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups diced bell peppers (red, yellow, green); 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 medium carrot, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup quinoa or farro, rinsed and drained; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Natural Ideas

When I first made this Sunday Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake, I was surprised at how hearty and satisfying it was. Combining a medley of seasonal veggies with wholesome grains creates a comforting dish that truly feels like a warm hug. The best part? It's incredibly versatile, allowing me to use whatever vegetables I had on hand. Whether I’m hosting friends or preparing a cozy meal for myself, this bake always impresses. I can't wait for you to try it and see how easy it is to make something so deliciously nutritious.

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:49:34.532Z

The first time I prepared this Sunday Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake, I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of flavors. I used a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, roasted until perfectly tender. I discovered that roasting not only enhances the vegetables' natural sweetness but also gives them a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the grains.

Another tip I discovered along the way is to let the grain mixture rest before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a more cohesive dish. Each bite is filled with a burst of flavor and nutrition that my whole family enjoys, making it a staple in our kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A colorful medley of vegetables that brightens any meal
Nutritious grains provide a satisfying base for the dish
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

Roasting Techniques for Perfect Vegetables

Roasting vegetables requires a fine balance of temperature and timing to achieve that perfect caramelization. For this recipe, preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) allows the natural sugars in the vegetables to develop a rich flavor and a slightly crispy texture. Keep an eye on the vegetables after the 20-minute mark; if they start to brown too much, give them a quick toss to ensure even cooking.

Using olive oil not only adds a beautiful flavor but also helps in achieving that desired golden texture. For an extra dimension of taste, consider experimenting with flavored olive oils or adding a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar before roasting. This will enhance the overall character of the dish without overwhelming the freshness of the vegetables.

Choosing and Cooking Your Grains

The choice between quinoa and farro can significantly affect the dish's texture. Quinoa cooks quicker and offers a light, fluffy texture, while farro lends a heartier, chewier bite. Regardless of your choice, rinsing the grains before cooking removes excess starch, preventing clumping and resulting in a perfect fluffy grain. When simmering, maintaining a low heat is crucial, as a gentle simmer will ensure the grains absorb the broth fully without overcooking.

If you need a gluten-free option, quinoa is an excellent choice, while farro can be swapped out for brown rice or millet. Each grain brings its unique taste and nutritional profile to the dish, making it adaptable to meet your dietary requirements.

Ingredients

Roasted Vegetables

2 cups diced bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Grain Base

1 cup quinoa or farro, rinsed and drained
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Grains

While the vegetables roast, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rinsed quinoa or farro, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the grains are tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Combine and Bake

Once the vegetables are done roasting, combine them with the cooked grains in a large mixing bowl. Mix well and transfer to a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese if desired. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, until heated through and cheese is bubbly.

Enjoy Your Bake!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or grains. Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before roasting can enhance the flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Sunday Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake is a great option for meal prep. You can prepare the roasted vegetables and the grain base a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and flavor. When you're ready to assemble, simply mix them together, add cheese if desired, and bake as instructed.

If you plan to make a larger batch, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, helping to restore some of that roasted texture. Alternatively, a microwave can be used for quicker reheating, but be mindful not to overcook, which may lead to mushy vegetables.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This bake is incredibly versatile; feel free to add your favorite herbs like fresh basil or parsley just before serving for an aromatic touch. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors, especially if you're using heartier vegetables like carrots or squash. For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.

You can also customize the cheese topping based on your flavor preferences. For a nutty profile, opt for Gruyère or aged cheddar. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy essence without the dairy, making it adaptable for various diets.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using quinoa or substituting farro with another gluten-free grain.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! Consider adding cooked chicken, chickpeas, or tofu to increase the protein content.