Recipe of the Month: Spring Roast Vegetables

With the season of spring well underway, our spring gardens should now be looking ready for harvest. In Australia, the most common vegetables that should be cropped up are asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, leeks, mushrooms, peas and artichokes. Get to harvesting, and then make the most of your fresh veggies with a seasonal veggie roast.

What are the Best Spices and Flavours for Roasted Spring Vegetables?

Roasted spring vegetables are a delightful addition to any meal, either as a side or as the main course. Not only are they packed with nutrients, but they also offer a burst of flavour and colour to your table. When it comes to choosing the best spices and flavours for your roasted spring vegetables, you have endless possibilities. Below are two delicious vegetable & seasoning combinations to consider.

Option 1: Lightly Herbed

If you prefer a light and refreshing flavour profile, an herb infusion is the way to go. Start by preheating your oven to 220°C. Then, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 bunch of asparagus
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Place the vegetables on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil.
2. Sprinkle the fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly over the vegetables. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are well coated. Don't skip the tossing as it ensures the veggies will cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Serve hot and enjoy the herb-infused goodness!
4. Feel free to mix and match any array of vegetables you like. Roasted potatoes are a classic addition to this seasoning mix.

Option 2: Spicy Kick

If you're a fan of bold and spicy flavours, this option is for you. Preheat your oven to 220°C and gather the following ingredients:

• 1 bunch of dutch carrots
• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 red capsicum, sliced
• 1 yellow capsicum, sliced
• 1 green capsicum, sliced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Place the vegetables on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil.
2. Sprinkle the paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper evenly over the vegetables. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are well coated.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Get ready to experience a fiery explosion of flavours!
4. A fun alternative is to also skewer your veggies and pop them in the oven, rotating them 180 degrees at the 10/12-minute mark.

Tips for Extra Crispy Potatoes

In spite of being a traditional winter vegetable, roasted potatoes are a staple in any vegetable medley, and achieving the perfect crispiness can take your dish to the next level. Here are some tips to ensure your potatoes turn out crispy:

• Choose the right potato: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they have a higher starch content that helps with crispiness.
• Parboil before roasting: Boil the potatoes for about 5 minutes before roasting them. This will help remove excess starch and create a crispy exterior.
• Spread them out: Make sure the potatoes are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them will result in steaming instead of roasting.
• Use high heat: Roast the potatoes at a high temperature, around 220°C, to encourage browning and crispiness.
• Stab small holes in them using a fork or oven poker. This can also help let out the steam and allow your potatoes to crisp up better.
• Don't forget the oil: Toss the potatoes in olive oil or melted butter before roasting. This will help them crisp up and add flavour.
• Give them a flip: Halfway through the roasting time, flip the potatoes to ensure even browning on all sides.

With these tips and flavour options, you're well on your way to creating the perfect roasted spring vegetables. Whether you prefer the refreshing herb infusion or the fiery spicy kick, a roasted veggie dish is a great way to enjoy spring vegetables and add some nutrition to your meal. Enjoy!