Classic French Ratatouille

Prep Time: 30 mins Cook Time: 1 hour Servings: 6
Classic French Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a classic French Provençal stewed vegetable dish, originating from Nice. This beautiful arrangement of sliced vegetables is baked in a rich tomato sauce until tender and flavorful. Perfect as a main dish or side, this recipe is both vegetarian and gluten-free.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 red bell peppers, diced
  • 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon herbs de Provence
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables:

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced
  • 6-8 Roma tomatoes, sliced
  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced
  • 2 yellow squash, sliced
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, basil, and herbs de Provence.
  5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Bake:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread the tomato sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish.
  3. Arrange sliced vegetables in alternating patterns vertically or in a spiral.
  4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  6. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Pro Tips

  • Try to choose vegetables of similar diameter for even cooking and presentation
  • Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture
  • Use a mandoline for even slicing if available
  • Don't skip the initial foil covering - it helps steam the vegetables

Variations

  • Add layers of mozzarella cheese for a gratinéed version
  • Include sliced potatoes for a heartier dish
  • Add different herbs like rosemary or oregano
  • Serve with crusty bread or over polenta

Nutrition Information

Calories 185
Protein 4g
Carbohydrates 21g
Fat 11g
Fiber 7g

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