vegetables
vegan
sautéed
everyday
main course
tender
French
summer
Hot
Ratatouille
Difficulty
easy
Time
1h 20m
Price Category
cheap
Calories
Low
Ratatouille is a classic French vegetable stew that brings the sunny flavors of Provence to your table. This rich and flavorful one-pot dish is made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, seasoned with fresh herbs. It's a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal, and it pairs wonderfully as a side dish or a standalone main course. Prepare this colorful and healthy dish and enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of Mediterranean cuisine!
ingredients
Steps
Prepare Vegetables
Dice the eggplant, zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers into roughly 2 cm (0.8 inch) pieces. Chop the onion and mince or finely chop the garlic.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Add the diced eggplant and zucchini to the pot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to combine.
Simmer Slowly
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Then, remove the lid and continue to cook for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
Serve
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm as a main course, side dish, or with fresh bread. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Extra Tips
► Don't be afraid to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms or sweet potatoes for an even richer flavor profile.
► Ratatouille often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, so it's great for meal prep.
► Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving for an extra burst of fresh aroma.
Nutrition
| Per 100g | Per Serving 200g / 7 oz | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 65 kcal | 130 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5g | 3g |
| Fat | 4g | 8g |
| Carbohydrate | 6g | 12g |
| Fiber | 2.5g | 5g |
| Sugar | 3.5g | 7g |