Gather your family around the dinner table with this stunning Ratatouille—a dish that not only celebrates the vibrant colors of seasonal vegetables but also turns cooking into a creative and joyful experience. Perfect for a rustic kitchen setting, this recipe will fill your home with the delightful aromas of fresh herbs and a rich tomato sauce. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special gatherings.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 large eggplant, thinly sliced
- 2 zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 4 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet, season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly at the bottom of an ovenproof dish.
- Arrange the sliced eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes in alternating layers on top of the sauce, forming a neat circular pattern. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.
Helpful Tips
To make slicing the vegetables easier, use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness. Feel free to substitute other vegetables like yellow squash or add a sprinkling of parmesan cheese before baking for a cheesy twist. For a heartier meal, pair the ratatouille with crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Pairings
This Ratatouille pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad and a glass of red wine. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted chicken or a simple pasta dish.
We can’t wait to see your beautiful Ratatouille creations! Share your dishes with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and inspirations. Follow Zynahz on social media for more delicious recipes and family-time ideas. Happy cooking!
