Briam (Greek Baked Zucchini and Potatoes) Recipe
Briam is a traditional Greek baked vegetable dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes, zucchini, red onions, and ripe tomatoes, all generously seasoned and slowly baked to tender perfection with olive oil and herbs. This wholesome, comforting dish showcases the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine and is perfect as a side or main vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins
- Total Time: 2 hrs
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 4 small red onions, thinly sliced
- 6 ripe tomatoes, puréed
Seasonings and Oil
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, zucchini, and red onions. Purée the ripe tomatoes until smooth.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s ready for baking the vegetables evenly.
- Assemble vegetables: In a large baking dish (9×13-inch or larger), spread the sliced potatoes, zucchini, and red onions evenly.
- Add tomato and seasoning: Pour the puréed tomatoes over the vegetables, drizzle with the olive oil, sprinkle chopped parsley if using, and season liberally with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to coat the vegetables fully.
- Initial baking: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. This allows the vegetables to soften and absorb flavors.
- Stir and continue baking: After the first hour, gently stir the vegetables to redistribute moisture and flavors. Continue baking for about 30 minutes more until the vegetables are tender and most moisture has evaporated.
- Adjust moisture if needed: If the vegetables seem too dry after the first hour, add up to ¼ cup of water carefully, avoiding excess liquid since the dish should finish dry.
- Serve: Let the Briam cool slightly before serving or enjoy it at room temperature as a delicious, rustic meal or side dish.
Notes
- Use a large baking dish or two to allow even cooking and prevent overcrowding.
- Parsley is optional but adds a fresh herbal note.
- Do not overwater during baking; excess liquid will prevent the vegetables from roasting properly.
- Briam can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for meal planning or entertaining.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of feta cheese for added richness.
