Ratatouille, a rustic dish from Provence, France, is both simple and elegant. Traditionally made by layering seasonal vegetables and slow-cooking them, Ratatouille showcases the freshness of Mediterranean produce. Beyond being visually stunning, it is also wholesome and vegetarian-friendly.

French Ratatouille – A Celebration of Vegetables

French Ratatouille

Ingredients

  • 1 eggplant, thinly sliced

  • 1 zucchini, thinly sliced

  • 1 yellow squash, thinly sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 4 tomatoes, pureed

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh basil for garnish

French Ratatouille

Cooking Method

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add tomato puree, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

  3. Spread the tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.

  4. Arrange sliced vegetables in alternating layers (eggplant, zucchini, squash, peppers).

  5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

  6. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes.

  7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Ratatouille pairs wonderfully with crusty French bread, couscous, or roasted meats. It can be served hot as a main dish or cold as a refreshing side.