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easy ratatouille recipe

Traditional Ratatouille Recipe: A Must-Try Dish You’ll Adore!


  • Author: Emily
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Description

This traditional ratatouille recipe showcases the perfect blend of Mediterranean vegetables in a hearty, flavorful dish. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, bursting with vibrant colors and rich tastes that make it a timeless classic.


Ingredients

Eggplant – This veggie is a key player, bringing a silky texture and earthy flavor to the ratatouille. It soaks up all the tasty juices while maintaining its shape and bite.

Zucchini – Zucchini brings a subtle sweetness and a tender bite to the dish. It’s light but still hearty, making it the perfect addition to balance the richness of the other vegetables.

Bell Peppers – These colorful veggies add crunch, brightness, and a mild sweetness. They’re like little bursts of sunshine that elevate the entire dish.

Tomatoes – Tomatoes are the heart of any ratatouille recipe. Their juicy, slightly tangy flavor binds all the veggies together, creating a delicious, saucy base for the dish.

Onions – Sweet and aromatic, onions add a savory depth to the recipe. They create a flavorful foundation as they cook down, adding richness to the mix.

Garlic – Garlic is the secret ingredient that brings an irresistible fragrance to the dish. It adds a punch of flavor that makes each bite truly memorable.

Herbs de Provence – This magical blend of herbs, including thyme, rosemary, and basil, brings the essence of Provence straight to your plate. It’s fragrant and earthy, giving the dish its signature flavor.


Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the vegetables. Start by slicing the eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes into even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.

Step 2 – Sauté the onions and garlic. Heat a bit of olive oil in a large pan. Cook the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. This step builds the flavorful base for your ratatouille.

Step 3 – Cook the vegetables. Add the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the pan. Stir occasionally, letting them soften and release their juices. This helps the veggies blend their flavors together.

Step 4 – Add tomatoes and herbs. Stir in the tomatoes, followed by your herbs de Provence. Let everything simmer gently. This helps the tomatoes break down into a flavorful sauce.

Step 5 – Let it cook. Continue to simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes. The vegetables will soften and the flavors will meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

Serving

Once your ratatouille is ready, it’s time to serve! This dish serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Serve it on its own – You can serve this dish on its own for a light, healthy meal.

Optional garnishes or pairings – For a delicious twist, serve with a side of crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a cold glass of lemonade. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil will elevate the dish.

For a fun variation, you can also enjoy it as a filling for a warm sandwich or wrap.

Tips and Hacks

Here are a few tips to make your traditional ratatouille even better:

Tip 1 – To make the dish even richer, try roasting the vegetables instead of sautéing them. It adds a smoky, caramelized flavor.

Tip 2 – If you want more texture, sprinkle some grated cheese, like Parmesan or goat cheese, on top right before serving.

Tip 3 – This dish is super versatile! You can add extra veggies like mushrooms or carrots to make it your own.

Tip 4 – Want to prep ahead? You can store the ratatouille in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so feel free to make a big batch!

  • Category: Main dish
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 150
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 3g

Keywords: ratatouille, traditional ratatouille recipe, vegetable stew