Tomato, Olive and Leek Bake a simple Mediterranean Delicacy
Description
This delicious tomato, olive and leek bake is a simple Mediterranean-inspired dish packed with fresh vegetables and bold flavour. Sweet, juicy tomatoes are combined with tender leeks, briny olives, garlic, herbs, and a generous drizzle of olive oil before being baked until bubbling and beautifully caramelised. This easy vegetable bake makes a wonderful vegetarian main course, healthy side dish, or comforting addition to a family dinner. With minimal preparation and everyday ingredients, it is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Serve this tomato, olive and leek bake with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh green salad for a satisfying meal.
Tomato, Olive and Leek Bake
This delicious tomato, olive and leek bake is a simpleMediterranean-inspired dish packed with fresh vegetables and bold flavour.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan) / 375°F. Lightly grease a large ovenproof baking dish with a little olive oil.
- Heat one tablespoon of the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced leeks and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the sliced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Arrange half of the tomatoes in the prepared baking dish and season lightly with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
- Spread the softened leeks and garlic over the tomatoes, then scatter over the olives.
- Arrange the remaining tomato slices on top and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
- Sprinkle over the smoked paprika, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes, until the tomatoes are tender, the edges are bubbling, and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes.
- Scatter over the fresh parsley or basil and serve warm with crusty bread, rice, or a green salad.
Notes
Chef’s Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes: Choose naturally sweet, flavourful tomatoes for the best result.
- Cook the leeks first: Softening them before baking brings out their natural sweetness and prevents them from remaining too firm.
- Don’t over-season: Olives and Parmesan can be quite salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
- Add some heat: A pinch of chilli flakes gives the bake a delicious spicy kick.
- Make it cheesy: Mozzarella, feta, or vegetarian hard cheese can all be used for a different finish.
- Let it rest: A few minutes of resting allows the juices to settle and makes the bake easier to serve.
