This Vegetable-Nut Loaf is a comforting, home-style dish that transforms simple pantry staples into a protein-rich main course. The combination of chopped carrots, celery, and onions provides a sweet and aromatic base, while the creamy cheddar cheese and binding eggs create a moist, firm texture that holds together beautifully when sliced. Enriched with wheat germ and a touch of thyme, it offers a nutty depth of flavor perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve it warm alongside the included onion sauce for a complete, satisfying meal that appeals to both vegetarians and omnivores alike. It’s an excellent way to use up fresh vegetables and creates a memorable, wholesome dish for family gatherings.
Vegetable-Nut Loaf
Description
This Vegetable-Nut Loaf is a comforting, home-style dish that transforms simple pantry staples into a protein-rich main course. The combination of chopped carrots, celery, and onions provides a sweet and aromatic base, while the creamy cheddar cheese and binding eggs create a moist, firm texture that holds together beautifully when sliced. Enriched with wheat germ and a touch of thyme, it offers a nutty depth of flavor perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve it warm alongside the included onion sauce for a complete, satisfying meal that appeals to both vegetarians and omnivores alike. It's an excellent way to use up fresh vegetables and creates a memorable, wholesome dish for family gatherings.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan and coat the interior with 1/4 cup of wheat germ.
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In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, celery, and half of the chopped onion. Cook until vegetables are tender.
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Stir in 1/4 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and thyme (if using). Cook for 1 minute to eliminate raw flour taste.
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Gradually stir in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
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Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese, remaining 3/4 cup wheat germ, and any nuts if desired.
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Gently fold in the beaten eggs until just combined.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 40 minutes, or until the loaf is firm to the touch and golden brown.
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Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting into squares.
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While the loaf bakes, prepare the onion sauce: Melt 2 tbsp butter in a small saucepan.
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Add finely chopped onion and cook until lightly browned.
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Stir in 1/4 cup flour and remove from heat.
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Whisk in water (or broth), soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper.
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Return to heat and stir constantly until the sauce thickens. Thin with extra water if necessary.
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Serve the vegetable loaf warm, topped with the onion sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 315kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21g33%
- Saturated Fat 11g56%
- Cholesterol 40mg14%
- Sodium 3668mg153%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Dietary Fiber 2.4g10%
- Sugars 6.5g
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.