Traditional Ratatouille Recipe

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:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes are high in antioxidants, protecting against cell damage and inflammation.
2. High Fiber Content: Vegetables in Ratatouille support healthy digestion and bowel function.
3. Low Calorie Count: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent option for weight management.
4. Vitamin and Mineral-Rich: Ratatouille is a good source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and manganese.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

1. Calories: 150-200
2. Fat: 8-10g
3. Saturated Fat: 1-2g
4. Cholesterol: 0mg
5. Sodium: 200-300mg
6. Carbohydrates: 20-25g
7. Fiber: 5-7g
8. 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:

1. Vegetarian and Vegan-friendly
2. Gluten-free
3. Low-carb options (serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles)
4. Add protein sources (chicken, sausage, or tofu) for added flavor and nutrition