Ratatouille Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This ratatouille recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh, seasonal vegetables in a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. It’s simple to make, yet feels special enough for any occasion. You’ll love how the flavors of eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes blend together perfectly. It’s a healthy, colorful meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as a main dish, side, or even over pasta!
Recipe
Classic French ratatouille celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer vegetables in a hearty, comforting dish. This method combines the traditional ingredients and techniques passed down through generations.
Olive oil (1/4 cup), onion (1 medium, diced), garlic (4 cloves, minced), eggplant (1 medium, cubed), zucchini (1 large, sliced), bell peppers (2, diced), tomatoes (4 medium, chopped), fresh thyme (1 tsp), bay leaf (1), salt and pepper to taste.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Incorporate eggplant and cook until softened, 7-8 minutes. Stir in zucchini and bell peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
For best results, use fresh, ripe vegetables. The dish develops richer flavors when made a day ahead and reheated. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.
Prep time: 20 mins. Cooking time: 45 mins. Total time: 1 hr 5 mins. Serves: 6.
Nutrition
Ratatouille is a nutritious dish packed with vegetables, making it a healthy choice. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Vitamin A | 30% DV |
| Vitamin C | 50% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love serving ratatouille with crusty bread to soak up all the rich flavors, and I’ve found a warm baguette works best. A little cheese on the side can take it to the next level, so I’ll share my favorite picks that pair perfectly. Trust me, these simple additions make the meal feel extra special.
Crusty Bread Pairing
Though ratatouille is delicious on its own, serving it with crusty bread takes the meal to the next level. I love pairing it with a fresh baguette, warm and slightly crispy on the outside. A swipe of garlic butter adds richness and ties everything together. It’s perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce, and the combo feels both rustic and satisfying. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Cheese Selection Tips
A great cheese can really elevate your ratatouille experience, and there’s no shortage of options to choose from. I love experimenting with different cheese types, like goat cheese for tanginess or Parmesan for a salty kick. Cheese textures matter, too—soft brie melts beautifully, while firmer options, like aged Gouda, add a satisfying bite. It’s all about finding what complements those rich, herby flavors best!
