Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables is a delightful dish that showcases the simplicity and flavor of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe brings together a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including potatoes, zucchini, and red onions, all perfectly seasoned and baked in a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a hearty main course, Briam fits the bill for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs and spices elevates the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a standalone meal or alongside your favorite proteins; it pairs well with almost anything!
• Healthy and Vegan: Packed with nutrients, this dish aligns perfectly with a balanced diet while being completely plant-based.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare Briam in advance and reheat it when ready to serve, making it ideal for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make Briam successfully, having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Oven-safe pan or skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly before baking.
• Oven-safe pan or skillet: Ensures even cooking and allows you to achieve that perfect roast on your vegetables.
• Knife: A good chef’s knife makes slicing vegetables quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your ingredients without damaging your countertops.

Ingredients

For the Vegetables

• 1 1/4 lb/ 570 g gold potatoes (about 3 medium-size potatoes), peeled and thinly sliced into rounds (about 1/8-inch thick)
• 1 1/4 lb/ 570 g zucchini squash (2 to 3 zucchini), thinly sliced into rounds (about 1/4-inch thick)
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tsp/ 3.6 g dried oregano
• scant 1 tsp/1.2 g dried rosemary
• 1/2 cup/ 35 g chopped fresh parsley
• 4 garlic cloves, minced

For the Sauce

• Early Harvest Greek extra virgin olive oil
• 1 28-oz/ 794 g canned diced tomatoes with juice (no-salt added organic tomatoes are recommended)

For the Onion

• 1 large red onion or 2 smaller red onions, thinly sliced into rounds (if large, you’ll want to cut the onion in half first, and then slice)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Place an oven rack in the middle to ensure even heat distribution while baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

• In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced potatoes and zucchini.
• Season them with kosher salt, pepper, oregano, and rosemary.
• Add fresh parsley and minced garlic to the bowl.
• Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
• Toss everything together until all vegetables are well coated.

Step 3: Set Up Your Baking Pan

• Grab a large round pan or skillet; an oven-safe option works best (an 11-inch pan is recommended).
• Pour half of the canned diced tomatoes into the pan and spread them out evenly across the bottom.

Step 4: Arrange the Vegetables

• Neatly arrange seasoned potatoes, zucchini slices, and onion rounds in rows within the pan.
• Alternate layers for an appealing presentation as you go around the shape of the pan.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

• If there’s any leftover olive oil and garlic mixture in your bowl, pour it over the arranged veggies.
• Top everything with the remaining diced tomatoes from your can.

Step 6: Bake Covered, Then Uncovered

• Cover your pan tightly with foil. Ensure it’s tented slightly so it doesn’t touch the veggies.
• Bake for 45 minutes at 400 degrees F. After that time, carefully remove foil and return to bake uncovered for another 30-40 minutes until veggies are tender and lightly charred.

Step 7: Serve

Once done baking, remove from oven. Serve warm or at room temperature with an extra drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy your delicious Briam!

How to Serve Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

Briam is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served as a main course or alongside other dishes, its rich flavors and vibrant colors make it a delightful addition to any meal.

As a Main Course

• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
• Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.

With Grains

• Offer over cooked quinoa or rice for added texture.
• Use as a filling in wraps or pita for a hearty lunch option.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Add grated Parmesan just before serving for a savory touch.

Accompanied by Dips

• Present with tzatziki sauce for a cool complement.
• Serve alongside hummus for added creaminess.

How to Perfect Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

For the best results with your Briam, keep these tips in mind. They will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Choose fresh vegetables: Fresh, seasonal produce will provide the best taste and texture.
• Cut vegetables uniformly: Slicing potatoes and zucchini evenly ensures they cook at the same rate.
• Use quality olive oil: A good extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to your dish.
• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh parsley and dried oregano bring authentic Greek flavors that elevate the dish.
• Adjust roasting time: Keep an eye on the vegetables; each oven may require slight adjustments to cooking times.
• Let it rest: Allowing Briam to sit briefly after baking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

Briam pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its Mediterranean flavors. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta drizzled with olive oil.
2. Pita Bread: Warm pita enhances the experience, perfect for scooping up vegetables.
3. Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based dip provides a cool contrast against the warm roasted veggies.
4. Lentil Soup: A hearty lentil soup adds protein and pairs well with the lightness of Briam.
5. Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy chickpeas add crunch and are a great source of protein.
6. Fried Eggplant Slices: The crispy texture complements the softness of roasted vegetables beautifully.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs makes an excellent base for serving Briam over it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables can be easy, but a few common mistakes might prevent you from achieving the perfect dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using thick vegetable slices: Thick slices can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your potatoes and zucchini are sliced thinly for optimal roasting and tenderness.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can result in bland vegetables. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavors of your Briam.
• Skipping the preheating step: Baking in a cold oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to 400 degrees F before starting.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many vegetables in one pan can cause steaming rather than roasting. Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation around the veggies.
• Ignoring cooking times: Different ovens may vary in temperature accuracy. Keep an eye on your Briam as it cooks to ensure all vegetables become soft and slightly charred.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Briam stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

• Freeze Briam in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place Briam in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion of Briam in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and warm the Briam for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables?

Briam is a classic Greek dish featuring roasted vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, and onions, seasoned with herbs and roasted in a flavorful tomato base.

How do I customize my Briam?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant according to your preference. Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme or basil!

Can I make Briam ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

What types of olive oil are best for Briam?

Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the dish. Early Harvest Greek EVOO is recommended for authenticity and taste.

Final Thoughts

Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! This healthy dish makes a great main course or side option alongside grilled meats or salads. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices—enjoy experimenting with this Mediterranean delight!