Sunday Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake

Name: Sunday Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 1 cup farro, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 yellow squash, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

I love Sundays for their relaxed pace, and what better way to enjoy a quiet day than with a comforting Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake? This dish combines hearty grains and vibrant vegetables, creating a nourishing meal for everyone at the table. Perfect for meal prep, it's also versatile, allowing me to use whatever seasonal veggies I have on hand. When I serve this warm, it's like getting a warm hug in a bowl, making any Sunday feel extra special.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:29:38.139Z

When I first experimented with this grain bake, I was pleasantly surprised by how all the flavors melded together so beautifully. I started by roasting a medley of seasonal vegetables, which not only enhanced their natural sweetness but also added depth to the dish. The key is to season the veggies well and roast them until they're tender and slightly caramelized.

I also find that using a mix of grains, like quinoa and farro, adds texture and makes the dish more filling. It's a great way to sneak in extra nutrients, and leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A comforting mix of hearty grains and roasted veggies
Versatile enough to use whatever seasonal produce you have
Great for meal prep and tastes even better as leftovers

The Importance of Choosing Fresh Vegetables

For the best flavor and nutrition, selecting fresh, seasonal vegetables is crucial in the Sunday Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake. Look for vibrant colors and firm textures when choosing bell peppers, zucchini, and squash. Fresh produce not only elevates the dish's taste but also maximizes its health benefits. When roasting, the natural sugars in these vegetables caramelize beautifully, creating a rich flavor profile that complements the hearty grains.

If you're short on time or ingredients, feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables. For example, roasted eggplant or asparagus could work beautifully in place of zucchini and yellow squash. Just keep in mind that different vegetables have varying roasting times; softer vegetables may need less time while root vegetables may require a bit more.

Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Grains

Cooking the quinoa and farro in vegetable broth enhances the overall depth of flavor in this dish. For quinoa, aim for a simmering heat, allowing it to absorb the broth completely, which typically takes about 15 minutes. Be careful not to overcook it; when done, quinoa should be fluffy and not mushy. Farro, on the other hand, often requires a longer cooking time of up to 30 minutes, depending on the type used—check for a tender yet chewy bite.

If you don't have farro or quinoa on hand, you can easily substitute with other whole grains such as barley or brown rice. Adjust the cooking times accordingly as each grain may require different amounts of broth and time to achieve that ideal texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Roasted Vegetable Grain Bake is a fantastic make-ahead meal. After baking, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it perfect for a week’s worth of lunches or quick dinners. If you plan on freezing it, use a freezer-safe container and aim to consume it within three months for optimal quality.

When reheating, I recommend covering the dish with foil and warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in individual servings. Just add a splash of vegetable broth to keep it moist during reheating, helping to refresh the flavors and prevent dryness.

Ingredients

Grain Bake Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 cup farro, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 yellow squash, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss the red bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet.

Roast the Vegetables

Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized.

Cook the Grains

While the vegetables are roasting, cook the quinoa and farro in vegetable broth according to package instructions.

Combine Everything

Once the grains are cooked, combine them with the roasted vegetables in a large bowl. Stir to mix well. If using mozzarella, mix it in at this stage.

Bake and Serve

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have available. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can elevate the dish even further!

Serving Suggestions

This grain bake can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. Pair it with a light salad or a protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, for a complete meal. Adding a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the flavors even further. Consider serving it with crusty bread, allowing the diners to scoop up the generous portions of roasted vegetables and grains.

For gatherings, you could present this dish in a large, colorful baking dish, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. The warm, inviting smell of roasted vegetables will surely draw your guests to the table.

Flavor Customizations

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to make this bake your own. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, while fresh parsley or cilantro can lend a fresh, bright flavor. You can also incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables.

If you prefer a cheesy dish, stirring in different types of cheese before baking can also change the flavor profile. Feta cheese crumbles or goat cheese would add a creamy texture and a salty contrast to the dish. Just remember to adjust the quantities accordingly to avoid overpowering the baked flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

→ What grains can I substitute?

You can use any mix of grains, such as brown rice or couscous, but ensure they have similar cooking times.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, just omit the mozzarella cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.