Vegetable Plate Recipe

Preheat and prepare vegetables

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Cut vegetables as specified (carrots on a bias, halved zucchini, broccoli into small florets, red pepper into 1-inch strips) so pieces are roughly uniform for even roasting.

Toss with oil and seasoning

In a large bowl, combine carrots, zucchini, broccoli, red bell pepper, and sliced shallot. Add 3 tbs extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and lemon zest. Toss until all pieces are lightly and evenly coated.

Spread and roast

Arrange vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving small gaps so they roast rather than steam. Roast in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, stirring or flipping once halfway through, until edges are caramelized and vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.

Finish after roasting

Remove the tray from the oven and let vegetables rest for 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add a pinch of salt or pepper). Drizzle 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice over the warm vegetables and gently toss to combine.

While the vegetables roast, make the vinaigrette. In a small bowl or jar combine 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 1.5 tbs white wine vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Whisk or shake to emulsify.

Stir in the chopped herbs (2 tbs parsley, 1 tbs basil, 1 tbs chives). Taste and adjust: add more vinegar for brightness, oil to mellow, or a pinch more salt if desired.

Place 1 cup microgreens or baby lettuce on the serving plate as a bed. Arrange the roasted vegetables over the greens in an attractive, slightly layered fashion.

Drizzle 2–3 tbs of the herb vinaigrette over the vegetables and greens. Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds evenly over the plate and, if using, crumble goat cheese on top.

Finish with an extra light grind of black pepper and an optional small pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve warm or at room temperature.