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Summer Vegetable Ratatouille

Summer Vegetable Ratatouille is a classic French dish that celebrates the abundance of fresh produce available during the summer months. This colorful and flavorful stew is made with a combination of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious. The dish is a celebration of the season's harvest and is a perfect way to enjoy the bountiful flavors of summer vegetables.

Prep Time:

40 mins

Cook Time:

50 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 30 mins

Servings:

Ingredients

½ cup olive oil, divided

2 onions, sliced into thin rings

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium zucchini, cubed

1 medium eggplant, cubed

2 medium yellow squash, cubed

2 green bell peppers, seeded and chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

salt and pepper to taste

1 bay leaf

4 sprigs fresh thyme

4 Roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat another 1 1/2 tablespoons oil. Add zucchini in batches and sauté until slightly browned on all sides. Transfer each batch to the pot with the onions and garlic.

Step 3

Working in batches, sauté eggplant, yellow squash, and bell peppers, one batch at a time, adding oil with each batch and transferring them to the pot when sautéed.

Step 4

Season the ratatouille with salt and pepper. Add thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Cover and cook over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 5

Add tomatoes and parsley. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 more minutes. Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

191

Calories

14g

Fat

16g

Carbs

Protein

Complement

The dish is traditionally made by sautéing the vegetables in olive oil and then simmering them together until they are tender and the flavors have melded. The result is a rich and hearty stew that can be served as a side dish, over pasta, or as a main course with crusty bread. Its versatility and vibrant colors make it a popular choice for summer entertaining, and it can be easily adapted to accommodate different dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a light and healthy meal or as a side dish at a summer barbecue, Summer Vegetable Ratatouille is a delicious way to savor the flavors of the season.