lomiloml
Culinary Explorer
Ratatouille Tian is a beautiful, rustic dish that’s as flavorful as it is stunning. I tried this version, and it really brings out the essence of those fresh, late-summer vegetables, all baked to perfection with a touch of olive oil and herbs. It’s a wonderful side or even a main dish if you pair it with some good bread. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 large zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 eggplant, thinly sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the bottom of a baking dish. Scatter the minced garlic and a layer of thinly sliced onion evenly over the bottom.
- Layer the Vegetables: Arrange the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, tomatoes, and red bell pepper in alternating layers, overlapping them slightly like a fan. The colors will look gorgeous!
- Season: Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. This is where all the fragrant, Mediterranean flavors start to come together.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.
- Garnish & Serve: Once out of the oven, let the ratatouille tian cool slightly, then sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm, either as a side or with some crusty bread for a light meal.