Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables is a delightful dish that showcases the best of Mediterranean cooking. This recipe features a medley of seasonal vegetables, including potatoes, zucchini, and red onions, all infused with fragrant herbs and spices. Perfect for any occasion, Briam can be enjoyed as a main course or served alongside your favorite entrees. Its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients make it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil gives Briam a rich taste that will impress everyone at your table.
• Versatile: Serve it as a standalone meal or as a side dish; Briam fits seamlessly into any dining occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutritious vegetables and vegan-friendly, this recipe aligns with the wholesome Mediterranean diet.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Briam can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Briam requires only a few essential tools to ensure the best results. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Oven-safe pan or skillet (11-inch recommended)
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine all vegetables and seasonings without spilling.
• Oven-safe pan or skillet: Ensures even cooking and browning of the vegetables for maximum flavor.
• Measuring spoons: Help accurately measure spices for consistent results in every batch.

Ingredients

To make Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Vegetables

• 1 1/4 lb/ 570 g gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced into rounds (about 1/8-inch thick)
• 1 1/4 lb/ 570 g zucchini squash, 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
• Early Harvest Greek extra virgin olive oil
• 1 28-oz/ 794 g canned diced tomatoes with juice (no-salt added organic tomatoes are recommended)
• 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, then slice)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add sliced potatoes and zucchini.
2. Season with kosher salt, pepper, oregano, and rosemary.
3. Incorporate fresh parsley, minced garlic, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
4. Toss well until all vegetables are evenly coated.

Step 3: Arrange in Pan

Grab your oven-safe pan:
1. Pour half of the canned diced tomatoes into the bottom of the pan.
2. Spread them out evenly.
3. Arrange seasoned potatoes, zucchini, and sliced onions in rows around the shape of the pan.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

If there’s any leftover olive oil mixture in your bowl:
1. Pour it over the arranged vegetables.
2. Top everything with the remaining diced tomatoes from your can.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the pan with foil:
1. Tent it slightly so it doesn’t touch the veggies.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 45 minutes.

Step 6: Finish Baking Uncovered

After 45 minutes:
1. Carefully remove the foil.
2. Return the pan to the oven uncovered for an additional 30-40 minutes or until veggies are soft and charred.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from oven:
Serve warm or at room temperature drizzled with extra virgin olive oil for added richness. Enjoy your delicious Briam!

How to Serve Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

Briam is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Its rich flavors pair beautifully with various sides and accompaniments, making it perfect for any meal.

As a Main Course

• Enjoy Briam on its own as a hearty main dish, especially for vegan or vegetarian meals.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the roasted vegetables and tomatoes.

Accompanied by Greek Salad

• A refreshing Greek salad adds a crunchy texture and bright flavors that complement the warmth of Briam.

Paired with Grilled Meats

• This vegetable dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish for a complete Mediterranean experience.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa to create a filling and nutritious meal that showcases the flavors of Briam.

As Part of a Meze Platter

• Include Briam in a meze platter alongside olives, hummus, and tzatziki for a delightful appetizer spread.

How to Perfect Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

Creating the perfect Briam can elevate your dish to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure your roasted vegetables come out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Choose seasonal produce for the best results.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices based on your taste preference. More oregano or added thyme can change up the flavor profile nicely.
• Don’t Rush Cooking: Take your time roasting. Allowing enough time will ensure the veggies become tender and develop those lovely caramelized edges.
• Experiment with Vegetables: While traditional Briam uses potatoes, zucchini, and onions, you can add bell peppers or eggplant for extra variety and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

Pairing side dishes with your Briam enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some great suggestions to enjoy alongside this flavorful dish.

1. Greek Yogurt Tzatziki
   A creamy yogurt-based dip made with cucumbers and garlic adds coolness to balance the roasted flavors.
2. Lemon Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice cooked with lemon juice and zest provides a zesty complement to the savory vegetables.
3. Spanakopita
   Spinach pie wrapped in flaky pastry brings a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with soft roasted veggies.
4. Feta Cheese Salad
   A simple salad with feta cheese, olives, and cherry tomatoes offers a tangy bite that pairs well with Briam.
5. Roasted Red Peppers
   Sweet roasted red peppers drizzled with olive oil make an excellent side that enhances the Mediterranean flair of Briam.
6. Hummus Plate
   Serve hummus with pita chips or fresh veggies as an appetizer alongside your main meal for added variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to adequately season your vegetables can lead to bland results. Make sure to generously season with salt, pepper, and herbs before roasting.
• Overcrowding the pan: Packing too many vegetables into one pan can cause steaming instead of roasting. Spread the vegetables evenly to ensure they get that beautiful char.
• Not using enough olive oil: Olive oil is key in achieving the right texture and flavor. A light drizzle won’t suffice; make sure each vegetable is well-coated for optimal taste.
• Ignoring cooking times: Each oven varies; relying solely on cooking times can lead to undercooked or burnt vegetables. Keep an eye on them and adjust as needed.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: The quality of canned tomatoes significantly impacts the dish. Opt for high-quality, no-salt-added tomatoes for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: Transfer any leftovers into a well-sealed container to maintain freshness.
• Keep for up to 4 days: Briam can be safely stored in the refrigerator for about four days without losing its taste or texture.

Freezing Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

• Use freezer-safe containers: Choose containers or bags designed for freezing to prevent freezer burn.
• Lasts up to 3 months: For best quality, enjoy frozen Briam within three months. It may still be safe beyond this but could lose flavor.

Reheating Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread Briam on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and stir-fry until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Briam?

Briam is a traditional Greek dish made from roasted vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, and onions, combined with olive oil and herbs. It’s often served as a main or side dish.

Can I customize the vegetables in Briam?

Absolutely! While classic ingredients include potatoes and zucchini, feel free to add other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers based on your preference.

Is Briam suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Briam keeps well in the refrigerator and freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

How do I ensure my vegetables are perfectly roasted?

To achieve perfectly roasted vegetables in your Briam, remember not to overcrowd the pan and ensure each piece is well-seasoned and coated in olive oil.

Final Thoughts

Briam: Traditional Greek Roasted Vegetables is not just delicious but also versatile. This dish works well as a stand-alone meal or alongside various entrees. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables. Give this healthy Mediterranean recipe a try—you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!