Roasted Veggie Antipasto: A Delicious and Healthy Italian Appetizer

When it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of tradition and flavor as perfectly as antipasto. Our Roasted Veggie Antipasto is a delightful twist on the classic antipasto platter, featuring a medley of roasted vegetables that are both flavorful and nutritious. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply as a healthy snack. With roots deeply embedded in Italian culinary traditions, antipasto serves as a warm welcome to a hearty meal. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious roasted veggie antipasto recipe that you can prepare in your oven.

Ingredients

To create this delightful roasted veggie antipasto, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), sliced into strips
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into rounds
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup button mushrooms, halved
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Slice and chop the bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms as described in the ingredients list. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Season the Vegetables

1. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning.
2. Pour the seasoning over the vegetables in the mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the olive oil mixture.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

1. Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
2. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir the vegetables halfway through the roasting time to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Assemble the Antipasto

1. Once the vegetables are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.
3. Add the kalamata olives and marinated artichoke hearts to the platter, arranging them around the roasted vegetables.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the roasted veggie antipasto warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, crackers, or as a side dish to your favorite Italian meal.
2. Enjoy the medley of flavors and textures that make this roasted veggie antipasto a standout dish. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Perfect Roasting

• Uniform Slicing: Ensure all vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even roasting.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow them to roast properly and not steam.
• Stirring Midway: Stir the vegetables halfway through roasting to ensure they cook evenly.

Variations

• Cheesy Twist: Add some crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan over the roasted vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with a bit of hot sauce for a spicy variation.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.

Substitutions

• Vegetables: Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites. Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts can be excellent additions.
• Oil: For a different taste, try using avocado oil or a flavored olive oil.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 3g

This roasted veggie antipasto is not only delicious but also a healthy choice, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the variety of vegetables used.

Our Roasted Veggie Antipasto is a versatile, healthy, and incredibly tasty appetizer that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a delightful snack, this dish is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and bring a touch of Italy to your table.