Name: Briam: A Traditional Greek Vegetable Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 3 medium zucchini, sliced; 3 medium potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 large red onion, sliced; 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes); 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Why You’ll Love Briam

There are several reasons why Briam is beloved by many:

Health-conscious: It’s packed with fiber and antioxidants thanks to the variety of vegetables used.
Easy to make: The preparation is minimal, and once the ingredients are ready, it’s all about layering and letting the oven do the work.
Flavorful: The slow roasting of vegetables in olive oil, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs creates a rich, satisfying dish with depth and complexity.

Key Ingredients

While variations do exist, the core ingredients for Briam are generally quite consistent. You will need:

Zucchini: This mild, soft vegetable holds up well during the roasting process and adds texture.
Eggplant: Known for its meaty texture, eggplant absorbs the flavors of the olive oil and herbs beautifully.
Potatoes: They provide heartiness to the dish and soak up all the delicious juices.
Onions: Thinly sliced onions caramelize during baking, contributing sweetness to the dish.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add moisture and acidity, balancing the richness of the olive oil.
Olive oil: A staple in Greek cuisine, it not only cooks the vegetables but also enhances their natural flavors.
Garlic: A key flavoring ingredient, garlic adds fragrance and depth.
Herbs: Oregano is the classic choice, but you can also use fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to complement the vegetables.
Salt and pepper: These simple seasonings round out the dish and bring all the flavors together.

Directions

The beauty of Briam lies in its simplicity. Here’s how you can make this tasty dish:

Preheat the oven: Start by heating your oven to around 200°C (390°F).
Prepare the vegetables: Wash and slice all the vegetables evenly. Try to slice them to a consistent thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
Season the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced vegetables with olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper. Toss them well to coat everything evenly.
Arrange the vegetables in a baking dish: You can either layer the vegetables neatly in rows or mix them together—both methods work wonderfully. The key is ensuring the vegetables are spread out in a single layer to allow even cooking.
Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven for about 30 to 40 minutes. This helps steam the vegetables, softening them.
Finish roasting: After 30–40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and beginning to brown at the edges. The final result should have soft, caramelized vegetables with a golden, crispy edge.
Let it cool: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Briam can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Briam is incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways:

As a main dish: Serve it as a hearty vegetarian main course alongside crusty bread or grains like rice or couscous.
As a side dish: It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or other Mediterranean dishes.
With a sprinkle of feta: For those who enjoy dairy, adding crumbled feta after baking offers a salty, creamy contrast to the sweet and savory vegetables.

Variations

One of the best things about Briam is how easily you can make it your own. Here are some fun variations:

Add bell peppers: They bring an extra layer of sweetness and color to the dish.
Carrots: If you want a bit of sweetness, add thinly sliced carrots to the mix.
Other herbs: Experiment with rosemary, basil, or thyme to create different flavor profiles.
Cheese: Top the dish with feta cheese or even parmesan for a more indulgent twist.
Other vegetables: If you have other summer vegetables like okra or squash, feel free to throw them in.

Storage and Reheating

Briam keeps well for several days, making it a great choice for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, you can place it back in the oven at a low temperature to warm through, or use a microwave for quicker reheating.

Conclusion

Briam is a celebration of Greek flavors, with its wholesome ingredients and Mediterranean flair. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a flavorful main, it delivers both taste and nutrition. With minimal preparation and a simple roasting process, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy the essence of summer in every bite and savor the simplicity of this timeless Greek recipe.