Garden Loaf(4 To 6 Servings)
A hearty vegetable loaf packed with fresh flavors and crunchy walnuts, perfect for family dinners or entertaining vegetarians, offering a moist texture and savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Line an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan with foil and grease the foil.
- In a large bowl, stir together chopped onion, chopped celery, shredded carrots, chopped green bell pepper, chopped walnuts, bread crumbs, salt, black pepper, and dill weed.
- In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the mayonnaise mixture into the vegetable mixture and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
- Allow to cool slightly before removing from the pan and slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the walnuts with pecans or adding some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure the vegetables are finely chopped for even cooking. If you're short on time, pre-chop the veggies a day ahead. This loaf can also be spiced up with a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Garden Loaf with a fresh mixed green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Creamy Chocolate Mints for dessert. Consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a tangy sauce on top for extra flavor. This dish can also be enjoyed cold in sandwiches, making it a versatile option for lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Garden Loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave slices for 1-2 minutes, but the oven will help maintain the loaf's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garden Loaf(4 To 6 Servings) contains roughly 370 calories, with 11g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1653mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Garden Loaf a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, you can use plain Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Both options will maintain the creaminess and moisture of the loaf. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt will add a slight tangy flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, the Garden Loaf freezes well. After baking and cooling completely, wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).