Savor the vibrant flavors of southern France with this hearty Eggplant Ratatouille recipe, a vegetable-packed masterpiece brimming with Mediterranean charm. Featuring tender eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and juicy tomatoes, this dish is simmered to perfection with aromatic garlic, onion, and fragrant fresh herbs like thyme, basil, and parsley. The slow-cooked medley creates a rich, rustic flavor profile that’s as comforting as it is wholesome. With just 20 minutes of prep and simple cooking techniques, this ratatouille is an ideal option for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining. Serve it warm with crusty bread or as a versatile side to grilled meats and fish for a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. This classic vegan and gluten-free French recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Wash and dice the eggplant into 1-inch cubes. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let it sit in a colander for 20 minutes to remove excess bitterness. Rinse and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
While the eggplant is resting, dice the zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the eggplant and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and slightly browned. Remove the eggplant from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant. Then, add the bell peppers and zucchini. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Return the eggplant to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Lower the heat to simmer, cover the pot, and let the ratatouille cook for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the vegetables don't stick to the bottom.
After 30 minutes, remove the lid and let the mixture cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate.
Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves and parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
Serve warm as a standalone dish with crusty bread or as a side to roasted meats, fish, or grains. Enjoy!
Serving size | 2606.2 grams (2606.2g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1254 |
Total Fat 62.30g | 80% |
Saturated Fat 9.80g | 49% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.80g | |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 7302mg | 317% |
Total Carbohydrate 165.50g | 60% |
Dietary Fiber 49.40g | 176% |
Total Sugars 92.50g | |
Protein 27.40g | 55% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 344mg | 26% |
Iron 8mg | 46% |
Potassium 5830mg | 124% |
Source of Calories