Imagine a dish that's as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. That's exactly what you get with this rainbow roasted vegetables recipe. This vibrant and colorful side dish is not only pleasing to the eye but also loaded with an array of nutrients. Each vegetable contributes a unique taste and texture, making every bite interesting and enjoyable.
The ingredients used in this recipe are all commonly found in most homes. However, if you don't have yellow squash, you can easily find it in the fresh produce section of any supermarket. Yellow squash has a mild flavor and buttery texture that goes well with other vegetables. Similarly, red bell peppers and red onions add a sweet and slightly pungent flavor, respectively.
Ingredients for the Rainbow Roasted Vegetables
Red bell peppers: These add a sweet, slightly tangy flavor and a vibrant red color.
Carrots: They provide a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and a bright orange color.
Yellow squash: This vegetable adds a soft texture, mild flavor, and a pop of yellow color.
Broccoli: Known for its distinct flavor and texture, broccoli gives this dish a beautiful green color and extra crunch.
Red onion: It adds a mild, sweet flavor and a touch of purple color.
Kosher salt: This type of salt has larger grains, which helps to draw out the flavors of the vegetables.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Canola oil: Used for roasting the vegetables, it has a neutral flavor that doesn't overpower the natural taste of the veggies.
One reader, Clementia Greene says:
I absolutely loved the rainbow roasted vegetables recipe! The colors were so vibrant and the flavors were amazing. It's a great way to get in a variety of veggies and it's so easy to make. The dish was a hit with my family and it's now a regular on our dinner table. Highly recommend!
Techniques for Perfectly Roasted Vegetables
How to prepare the vegetables: Wash and dry the vegetables thoroughly before cutting them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
How to arrange the vegetables: Place the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet in the order of the rainbow: red bell pepper, carrots, yellow squash, broccoli, and red onion.
How to check for doneness: To check if the vegetables are done, pierce the carrots with a fork. They should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
How To Make Rainbow Roasted Vegetables
Savor the healthy flavors of these roasted vegetables that match the rainbow! Just layer bell pepper, carrots, squash, and broccoli, and bake until tender.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2red bell peppers,cut into 1-inch chunks
- 4carrots,cut into ½-inch thick coins
- 2yellow squash,cut into ½-inch thick half circles
- 1lbbroccoli,trimmed and cut into bite sized pieces
- 1red onion,trimmed and cut into ½-inch thick wedges
- ½tspkosher salt
- ¼tspblack pepper
- 3tbspcanola oil
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
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In one large bowl add ½ tablespoon of oil and gently toss onions, then place onto a tray. Do the same for every veggie except the broccoli which needs 1 tablespoon.
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Arrange them in a single layer onto your cookie sheet in the order of the rainbow: red bell pepper, carrots, yellow squash, broccoli, and red onion.
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Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper.
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Cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until they’re just starting to brown and the carrots are fork tender.
Nutrition
- Calories: 182.66kcal
- Fat: 7.66g
- Saturated Fat: 0.61g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.46g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.14g
- Carbohydrates: 28.30g
- Fiber: 6.48g
- Sugar: 5.76g
- Protein: 4.29g
- Sodium: 216.54mg
- Calcium: 104.56mg
- Potassium: 983.30mg
- Iron: 1.91mg
- Vitamin A: 451.17µg
- Vitamin C: 137.83mg
Pro Tip for Achieving Perfectly Roasted Vegetables
To ensure even roasting and prevent the vegetables from steaming in their own juices, it's important to give them plenty of space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to soggy, rather than crispy, roasted vegetables. Also, cutting the vegetables into uniform sizes will help them cook evenly. For the carrots, for instance, you might want to cut them into thinner slices or smaller pieces if they're particularly large. This way, they'll be done at the same time as the quicker-cooking veggies like bell peppers and squash.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Rainbow Roasted Vegetables Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and store the vegetables in advance to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables to minimize prep time.
One-pan cooking: Opt for a large sheet pan to roast all the vegetables at once, saving time on cleanup.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity and store the leftovers for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Invest in quality tools: Quality knives and kitchen tools can make prep work more efficient.
Follow a routine: Establish a routine for prepping and cooking to streamline the process.
Multi-task: While the vegetables are roasting, use that time to prepare other components of your meal.
Substitute Ingredients For Rainbow Roasted Vegetables Recipe
red bell peppers - Substitute with orange bell peppers: Orange bell peppers have a similar sweet and tangy flavor, and they will add a vibrant color to the dish.
carrots - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes will provide a similar earthy sweetness and vibrant color when roasted.
yellow squash - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a great substitute for yellow squash.
broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be roasted to a similar tender-crisp texture and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can caramelize beautifully when roasted, adding a sweet and savory element to the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Rainbow Roasted Vegetables
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for roasting and baking the vegetables.
- Baking tray: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for arranging the vegetables in a single layer for roasting.
- Large bowl: Used for tossing the vegetables with oil and seasonings before roasting.
- Knife: Used for cutting the vegetables into even-sized pieces for roasting.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the vegetables.
- Measuring spoons: Used for accurately measuring the salt and pepper for seasoning the vegetables.
- Spatula: Used for flipping and turning the vegetables while roasting.
- Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking tray when removing it from the oven.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Rainbow Roasted Vegetables
- Let the roasted vegetables cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze, place the cooled roasted vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the vegetables are frozen solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the vegetables to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- When stored properly in the freezer, roasted vegetables will maintain their best quality for up to 6 months, although they will remain safe to eat beyond that time.
- To reheat frozen roasted vegetables, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Spread the frozen vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crisp. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispness.
How To Reheat Leftover Rainbow Roasted Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the leftover rainbow roasted vegetables on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the vegetables and toss gently to coat. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through and slightly crispy.
For a quick and easy method, reheat the rainbow roasted vegetables in the microwave. Place the vegetables in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they may become mushy.
If you have a skillet or sauté pan, you can reheat the rainbow roasted vegetables on the stovetop. Heat a little olive oil or butter in the pan over medium heat. Add the vegetables and toss gently to coat. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are heated through and slightly crispy.
For a flavorful twist, try reheating the rainbow roasted vegetables in a stir-fry. Heat a little sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Add your favorite stir-fry sauce or seasonings, such as soy sauce, ginger, or garlic, and toss to coat.
If you have a grill or grill pan, you can reheat the rainbow roasted vegetables with a smoky flavor. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the vegetables with a little olive oil and place them on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the vegetables are heated through and slightly charred.
Interesting Trivia About Rainbow Roasted Vegetables
The rainbow roasted vegetables recipe is a great way to incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables into your diet, providing a wide range of essential nutrients and antioxidants. This dish not only offers a visually appealing array of colors but also a diverse mix of flavors and textures. It's a simple and healthy side dish that can complement a wide range of main courses, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Additionally, roasting the vegetables helps to enhance their natural sweetness and caramelization, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. This recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a colorful assortment of vegetables.
Is Making Rainbow Roasted Vegetables at Home Cost-Effective?
This rainbow roasted vegetables recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The variety of vegetables used, such as bell peppers, carrots, squash, and broccoli, are generally affordable and readily available. The minimal use of oil and seasonings keeps the cost low while enhancing the flavors. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it an economical and nutritious choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Rainbow Roasted Vegetables Healthy or Unhealthy?
The rainbow roasted vegetables recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish that incorporates a variety of colorful vegetables. The recipe includes red bell peppers, carrots, yellow squash, broccoli, and red onion, which are all packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The use of canola oil in moderation provides healthy unsaturated fats, while the seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper adds flavor without excessive sodium.
This recipe can be further enhanced to maximize its health benefits:
- Consider using olive oil instead of canola oil for an even healthier option, as olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants
- Add more leafy greens, such as kale or spinach, to increase the nutrient density and provide additional vitamins and minerals
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, like garlic, rosemary, or thyme, to add more flavor and potential health benefits without relying on salt
- Serve the roasted vegetables alongside lean proteins, such as grilled chicken or tofu, to create a well-balanced meal
- Incorporate whole grains, like quinoa or brown rice, to provide complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Editor's Opinion on This Vibrant Vegetable Recipe
The rainbow roasted vegetables recipe is a delightful and visually stunning dish that celebrates the natural flavors of the vegetables. The combination of red bell peppers, carrots, yellow squash, broccoli, and red onion creates a vibrant and colorful dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The simple seasoning of kosher salt and black pepper allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through, while the roasting process brings out their sweetness and depth of flavor. This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a delicious and healthy manner.
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Why trust this Rainbow Roasted Vegetables Recipe:
This rainbow roasted vegetables recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one dish. The vibrant colors of the red bell peppers, carrots, yellow squash, and broccoli not only make for a visually appealing meal but also signify the diverse range of nutrients present. The use of canola oil ensures a light and even coating, while the seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper enhances the natural flavors. With a straightforward cooking method and a focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a trustworthy choice for a flavorful and wholesome dish.
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