Vegetable and Bacon Medley

This delightful recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of seasonal vegetables and crispy bacon, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and bursting with flavor. It's a versatile meal that can serve as a main course or a hearty side dish. The combination of roasted potatoes, a mix of colorful vegetables, and the savory depth of bacon is a treat for the palate. The dish is complemented by a tangy mustard dressing that ties all the elements together beautifully. It's simple to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The preparation involves easy steps, making it accessible to cooks of all levels. This recipe emphasizes the importance of fresh ingredients and showcases how they can be transformed into something extraordinary. With just a bit of olive oil and seasoning, ordinary vegetables receive a remarkable upgrade. Once prepared, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 package of Bonduelle Vapeur "California mix" steamed vegetable blend
• 3-4 large potatoes
• 150 g bacon slices
• Olive oil
• Salt

For the Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Preparation: 10 minutes
  • Cooking: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal temperature to roast the potatoes to perfection.
2. Thaw the steamed vegetable blend. Set them aside until needed.
3. Prepare the potatoes by washing them thoroughly. Cut them into wedges, ensuring they are evenly sized for even cooking.
4. Transfer the potatoes to a baking dish. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until they begin to turn golden brown and crisp at the edges.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and add the thawed vegetable mix. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
7. Layer the bacon slices evenly over the vegetable and potato mixture. This will allow the bacon to infuse the dish with its savory flavors.
8. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. The bacon should be crispy, and the vegetables tender.
9. While the dish is baking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
10. Add the lemon juice and continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
11. Incorporate the sugar into the dressing, stirring until it dissolves completely. Taste and adjust with additional salt if necessary.
12. Once the bacon is crispy and the vegetables are done, remove the dish from the oven.
13. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the hot vegetable and bacon medley. Stir gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
14. Serve hot, allowing the warm dressing to meld with the flavors of the vegetables and bacon.
15. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, for an extra touch of freshness.
16. Enjoy this as a main dish or serve it as a side to complement your favorite protein.
17. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed the next day.
18. Reheat in the oven for best results, crisping the bacon and reviving the vegetables.
19. Consider doubling the dressing for an even more generous coating on the dish.
20. Savor every bite of this delicious medley, appreciating the harmony of flavors.

Tips

• For a smoother dressing, use a blender to emulsify the ingredients quickly.
• Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added variety.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper along with the salt.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
• Substitute the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter contrast.
• Consider adding chickpeas for extra protein.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish as a wonderful side.

Best Places

• Vegetable & Bacon Bistro - Known for its unique take on classic vegetable dishes. Location: 123 Gourmet St, New York, USA.
• Green Farm Cafe - Famous for its farm-to-table approach. Location: 75 Orchard Ave, San Francisco, USA.
• Crispy Corner - Offers a variety of bacon-infused delights. Location: 88 Bake St, London, UK.
• Gusto Vegetale - Celebrates Mediterranean flavors with bold combinations. Location: 9 Piazza Bella, Rome, Italy.
• The Rustic Spoon - Offers comfort food with modern twists. Location: 46 Maple Rd, Toronto, Canada.
• Garden Grub - A favorite for healthy creative dishes. Location: 205 Green Ln, Melbourne, Australia.
• Taste Harmony - Embraces global flavors in all its dishes. Location: 15 Spice St, Mumbai, India.
• Bistro Fresh - Known for its fresh ingredients and delightful pairings. Location: 64 Riverside Dr, Sydney, Australia.
• The Earthy Table - A hub for locally sourced, seasonal meals. Location: 23 Eco Park St, Berlin, Germany.
• Organic Bites - Combines organic ingredients with innovative recipes. Location: 303 Natural Blvd, Cape Town, South Africa.