If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and simple dish to add to your weekly meal rotation, the Piri Piri One Tray Bake is the perfect option. Combining the robust flavors of a homemade Piri Piri marinade with nutritious vegetables and protein-packed chickpeas, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Piri Piri One Tray Bake
For the Piri Piri Marinade:
- 2 red bell peppers, roughly chopped
- 2 red chili peppers, deseeded (adjust for spice level)
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Tray Bake:
- 1 can (14 oz / 400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation Method of Piri Piri One Tray Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and helps bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Step 2: Make the Piri Piri One Tray Bake
- In a blender or food processor, combine the following ingredients: red bell peppers, red chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and lemon juice.
- Blend until the mixture becomes smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a spicier marinade, add an extra chili pepper or leave the seeds in.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables and Chickpeas
- On a large baking tray, spread the chickpeas, sweet potatoes, red onion wedges, zucchini rounds, and bell pepper slices.
- Drizzle with the olive oil and toss to coat evenly. This helps ensure the vegetables roast beautifully without drying out.
Step 4: Add the Piri Piri Marinade
- Pour the prepared Piri Piri marinade over the vegetables and chickpeas.
- Toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with the flavorful sauce. Spread the mixture into an even layer on the tray for even roasting.
Step 5: Roast the Tray Bake
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes.
- Stir halfway through cooking to ensure the vegetables cook evenly and develop a slightly caramelized exterior.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Piri Piri One Tray Bake
- Remove the tray from the oven once the vegetables are tender and slightly golden.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a touch of freshness.
- Serve the Piri Piri Tray Bake warm. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even a light green salad.
FAQs About Piri Piri One Tray Bake
1. What is Piri Piri One Tray Bake?
Piri Piri, sometimes spelled Peri Peri, is a Portuguese-inspired spice blend often associated with African and Portuguese cuisines. It’s known for its vibrant flavor, which combines spicy, smoky, tangy, and herbal notes. The marinade is typically used for grilling or roasting and pairs well with meats, seafood, and vegetables.
2. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! To reduce the heat, use fewer chili peppers or deseed them thoroughly. For a milder version, you can even substitute red chili peppers with milder red peppers. Conversely, if you love heat, leave the seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. What other vegetables can I use?
This recipe is versatile and can accommodate various vegetables. Consider adding mushrooms, broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts. Just ensure all vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
4. Can I add protein to the Piri Piri One Tray Bake?
Yes! While chickpeas provide a plant-based protein source, you can add chicken, shrimp, or even tofu. Marinate the protein with a bit of the Piri Piri sauce before baking to enhance the flavor.
5. Is this dish meal-prep friendly?
Definitely. The Piri Piri Tray Bake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
While the vegetables and chickpeas can be frozen, their texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, store the tray bake in an airtight container for up to one month. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Conclusion
The Piri Piri One Tray Bake is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bold spices, it’s a versatile recipe perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a delicious, healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re new to Piri Piri flavors or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve it as a main dish or a hearty side, and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!
[tasty-recipe id=”2393″]
