Ratatouille Recipe

Ratatouille is a traditional French Provençal vegetable dish made with vibrant summer produce like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce, this dish bursts with flavor and can be served as a side dish, main course, or even a light appetizer. It’s hearty, healthy, and utterly delightful!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
• 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
• 1 medium eggplant, thinly sliced
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large skillet or saucepan
• 9-inch round or oval baking dish
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomato sauce:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, then spread the sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Layer the vegetables:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Arrange the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, tomatoes, and bell peppers in a circular pattern on top of the sauce, alternating the vegetables for a colorful presentation.
3. Season and drizzle:
   • Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the vegetables. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, and additional thyme or oregano if desired.
4. Bake:
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized on top.
5. Garnish and serve:
   • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil before serving. Serve hot as a side dish, over rice, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips

• Slice evenly: For even cooking, make sure the vegetable slices are roughly the same thickness.
• Add cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese over the vegetables before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Make it ahead: Ratatouille tastes even better the next day! Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Ratatouille is a classic dish that transforms humble vegetables into a flavorful, stunning masterpiece. With its rich tomato base and perfectly roasted vegetables, it’s a versatile recipe that works for any meal. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of French cuisine at home!