Vegetable Meatloaf: A Nutritious and Satisfying Meal

This vegetable meatloaf is a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of zucchini, bell pepper, and oats makes it both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a hearty and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 zucchini
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (200 ml) oats (100 g)
  • 1/2 cup water (120 ml)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • Green onion, finely chopped
  • Parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • Oil of your choice, such as olive or vegetable, for sautéing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Zucchini:
    • Grate the zucchini and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
    • Allow the mixture to rest for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
    • Use a clean kitchen towel to wring out as much liquid as you can from the grated zucchini.
  2. Prepare the Oatmeal:
    • In a bowl, combine the oatmeal and water. Let it soak for about 10 minutes until the oats are soft and have absorbed the water.
  3. Mix the Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, soaked oatmeal, eggs, finely chopped bell pepper, green onion, parsley, and minced garlic.
    • Blend thoroughly until every ingredient is uniformly mixed.
  4. Season and Combine:
    • Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the mixture and mix well to combine.
  5. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan with a bit of olive oil or vegetable oil.
  6. Form the Meatloaf:
    • Transfer the vegetable mixture to the greased loaf pan.
    • Press firmly to pack the loaf tightly and ensure it’s well-formed.
  7. Bake the Meatloaf:
    • Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is firm and golden brown on top.
  8. Cool and Serve:
    • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing.
    • Serve warm as a main dish, or enjoy cold as leftovers.

Conclusion

This Vegetable Meatloaf is a perfect blend of fresh vegetables and hearty oats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a single dish. Serve it with a side salad or your favorite sauce for a complete and delicious meal. Enjoy!