What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Summer Vegetable Ratatouille is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather meals. It’s easy to make and packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients. You’ll love how the flavors of zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes blend together in every bite. It’s a healthy, colorful dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as a main course, side dish, or even over pasta or rice!

Recipe

Ratatouille is a classic French dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer vegetables. This hearty and versatile recipe is perfect as a main course or a side dish, offering a delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add the tomatoes, thyme, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes:

• For a richer flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
• This dish can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Serving: 4-6

Nutrition

This ratatouille is packed with fresh summer vegetables, offering a nutritious and flavorful dish. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love serving my ratatouille with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices, but sometimes I’ll add grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. A warm baguette or focaccia works wonders, though you can’t go wrong with a simple side of quinoa or lentils if you want extra protein. It’s all about balancing flavors and textures, so don’t be afraid to mix and match!

Bread Pairings

Pairing the right bread with your summer vegetable ratatouille can truly elevate the meal. I love serving it with a crusty baguette, perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices. Garlic bread is another favorite of mine—its buttery, garlicky flavor complements the veggies beautifully. Both options add a satisfying crunch and make the dish feel heartier. Trust me, you won’t want to skip the bread!

Protein Options

After enjoying the perfect bread with your ratatouille, you might be thinking about adding some protein to round out the meal. I love pairing it with grilled chicken or lamb for hearty meat choices, but tofu alternatives like tempeh or chickpeas work just as well for a lighter option. They soak up the flavors beautifully, making every bite satisfying. It’s all about what fits your taste!