
A layered vegetable bake is a hearty, oven-baked casserole featuring thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, and onions, often layered with herbs and sometimes cheese. It's a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, celebrating seasonal produce. The dish is known for its tender texture and rich, savory flavors developed through slow baking.
This dish is generally low in carbohydrates and protein but can be higher in fat if prepared with generous amounts of olive oil or cheese. It's an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants from the vegetables. A typical serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4.5 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Vitamin A | 850 IU |
| Vitamin C | 18 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Manganese | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin K | 25 mcg |
| Folate | 45 mcg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, this bake is a versatile dish that adapts to local harvests, making it a symbol of resourceful, farm-to-table cooking. Nutritionally, the combination of cooked vegetables enhances the bioavailability of certain nutrients, like lycopene from tomatoes, making them easier for the body to absorb.