Traditional Ratatouille recipe that combines a mix of vibrant vegetables cooked in olive oil with fragrant herbs. This traditional French cuisine is great to have as a side dish or as the main course!
Traditional Ratatouille Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, diced
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or fresh, if available)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Prep the vegetables:
Cut the eggplants zucchinis onion and bell peppers into pieces that are the same size. Cut the tomatoes into pieces and finely chop the garlic.
- Cook the eggplant:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook until it softens and begins to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the onions and peppers:
In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add the zucchini:
Add the zucchini to the pan with the onions and peppers, cooking until it softens but still has some texture, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the tomatoes and herbs:
Return the eggplant to the pan and stir in the chopped tomatoes, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer:
Lower the heat and simmer the ratatouille uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy. If the dish gets too dry, you can add a splash of water.
- Finish and serve:
Taste and adjust the seasoning. Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh basil, and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
Traditional Ratatouille Recipe Benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes are high in antioxidants, protecting against cell damage and inflammation.
- High Fiber Content: Vegetables in Ratatouille support healthy digestion and bowel function.
- Low Calorie Count: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent option for weight management.
- Vitamin and Mineral-Rich: Ratatouille is a good source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and manganese.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200-300mg
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 5-7g
- Protein: 3-5g
“Nutrition Information Disclaimer: Estimates provided by online calculator. Not a substitute for professional nutrition advice.”
“Warning: Nutritional data is approximate and calculated online. Consult a qualified nutritionist for accurate guidance.”
Traditional Ratatouille Recipe Variations and Adaptations:
- Vegetarian and Vegan-friendly
- Gluten-free
- Low-carb options (serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles)
- Add protein sources (chicken, sausage, or tofu) for added flavor and nutrition