Briam: A Classic Mediterranean Vegetable Bake Bursting with Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Naturally Vegan: This dish is packed with vegetables and olive oil, making it a wholesome and satisfying vegan option.

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep work, it’s a simple dish to prepare, and it all bakes in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

• Incredibly Flavorful: The slow roasting process intensifies the flavors of the vegetables, enhanced by the fragrant garlic and oregano.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Briam tastes even better the next day, which makes it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

• 2 zucchinis, sliced into rounds

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced

• 2–3 ripe tomatoes, sliced

• 1 red onion, sliced

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

directions

1. Preheat Oven
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Vegetables
   Slice all the vegetables into similar thickness (about ¼ inch). If you have time, sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 15–20 minutes to remove bitterness. Afterward, rinse and pat dry.

3. Mix the Olive Oil Base
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Dish
   Layer the vegetables in a round or rectangular baking dish. You can alternate the slices in a spiral or rowed pattern, whichever you prefer. Pour the olive oil mixture evenly over the vegetables, using a spoon to coat them well.

5. Bake Covered, Then Uncovered
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30–35 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the tops are lightly caramelized.

6. Garnish and Serve
   Once the Briam is done, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Extra Protein: Include chickpeas, lentils, or your favorite beans to turn Briam into a more substantial meal.

• For Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of tahini just before serving for a creamy twist.

• Spicy Option: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a fresh chili for a bit of heat.

• Herb Variations: Swap oregano for thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. Briam also tastes great cold or at room temperature.

• Freezing: Briam can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in Briam?

Yes! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even squash to the mix for extra flavor and variety.

Is Briam gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?

Salting and draining the eggplant before cooking helps to remove excess moisture, which improves the texture and prevents sogginess.

Can I make Briam ahead of time?

Yes, Briam can be made a day or two ahead. The flavors improve with time, making it an excellent dish for meal prep.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, crumbled feta or parmesan can be added before baking or as a garnish once it’s done.

What type of olive oil should I use?

Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It will enhance the richness of the vegetables.

Can I make Briam in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Layer the vegetables and cook on low for 4–6 hours or until tender.

Is Briam suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! The dish is naturally vegan, as it contains no meat or dairy.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs. Use 2–3 times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to add heat and spice to the dish.

Conclusion

Briam is the perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create a dish full of flavor and warmth. This Mediterranean vegetable bake is not only a wholesome, satisfying meal, but it’s also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether served on its own as a light main course or alongside your favorite grilled protein, Briam is sure to become a family favorite that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean.