Ingredients

1/2 - 3/4 cup olive oil
2 medium onions , sliced thin
1 cup gruyere cheese , grated ( about 1/4 pound )
1 lb zucchini , cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices
1/2 cup loosely-packed fresh basil , chopped
2 tablespoons salt
1 pinch cayenne
2 large red bell peppers , cut crosswise into 1/4-inch rings ( cores and seeds discarded )
1 lb eggplant , cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices ( salted and set aside to rest for several minutes to drain on paper towels )
2 lbs plum tomatoes , cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leave
1 cup coarse fresh breadcrumb
Ratatouille is a classic French vegetable dish originating in the region of Nice that has been popularized by the animated movie of the same name. Traditionally, it is a stew-like dish made with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and garlic, simmered with olive oil and herbs until all the flavors meld together. Ratatouille can be served hot or cold, as a side dish or a main course, and pairs well with crusty bread or pasta. This Ratatouille terrine is a creative spin on the classic recipe, featuring colorful layers of sautéed vegetables, cheese, and breadcrumbs baked to perfection in a loaf pan. It takes a little bit of effort to prepare, but the end result is worth it and makes a great presentation for a dinner party or a meal prep option for the week.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2.In a large skillet, heat 1/2 cup of the olive oil over low heat.
3.Add the onions and cook until translucent for about 10 minutes.
4.Add 1/2 cup of the Gruyere cheese and stir until melted.
5.Spread the onion and cheese mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch loaf pan.
6.Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer over the onion mixture.
7.Spread the chopped basil over the zucchini slices.
8.Sprinkle with salt and cayenne.
9.Arrange a layer of red bell pepper rings over the basil.
10.Repeat the layers with the eggplant, then the tomato slices and the thyme leaves.
11.Finish with a layer of breadcrumb.
12.Drizzle the top with the remaining olive oil and cheese.
13.Bake for about 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown.
14.Let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

PROS

Healthy, packed with vegetables, and delicious, this Ratatouille terrine is a perfect meal for a vegetarian diet and a great way to enjoy seasonal produce.

CONS

Make sure to oil the baking pan well since the terrine tends to stick to the bottom.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This Ratatouille terrine is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and nutrients like dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, cucurbitacins, flavonoids, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
Eating a diet rich in vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes and bell peppers has been linked to numerous benefits like improved digestive health, reduced inflammation, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, weight management, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

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