Hearty Baked Ratatouille with Beans - layers of veggies, herbs, & beans in a savory bake. Perfect for summer dinners! #ratatouille #baking #vegetarian #recipe
- **Organic Eggplant** - Fresh and organic eggplants provide the perfect texture and flavor for ratatouille.
- **Heirloom Tomatoes** - Rich, flavorful heirloom tomatoes are essential for a classic ratatouille recipe.
- **Zucchini** - Zucchini adds a delicious crunch and mild flavor to the dish.
- **Bell Peppers** - Red, yellow, or green bell peppers can be used for vibrant colors and a sweet taste.
- **Onions** - Sweet onions add depth of flavor and a soft texture when cooked.
- **Garlic Cloves** - Minced garlic enhances the overall savory profile of your ratatouille.
- **Canned Chickpeas** or **Kidney Beans** - Canned beans provide protein and additional fiber, making it more filling.
- **Fresh Basil Leaves** - For a fragrant herb touch that complements the other ingredients well.
- **Olive Oil** - Use extra-virgin olive oil for a rich flavor and to sauté vegetables.
- **Salt and Pepper** - Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- **Thyme or Rosemary** - Optional herbs that can add depth of flavor, depending on personal preference.
- **Bay Leaves** - A small amount can be added towards the end of cooking to enhance the broth.
- **Vegetable Broth** - Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Opt for organic and heirloom varieties when possible to ensure a richer taste experience and better nutrition.
Advertisement
Steps
### Baked Ratatouille with Beans: A Delicious Vegetarian Dish
#### Introduction:
Baked ratatouille is a vibrant, hearty vegetarian dish that combines the flavors of summer vegetables in a simple yet sophisticated way. This recipe adds beans to give it an extra layer of flavor and texture. Perfect for a family meal or a dinner party, this dish can be made ahead of time and baked at the last minute.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin half-moons
- 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
- 3 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) of cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Grated mozzarella or cheddar for topping (optional)
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare Vegetables:**
- Wash and slice all vegetables as indicated in the ingredient list.
3. **Sauté Aromatics:**
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant but not browned.
4. **Add Vegetables:**
- Add sliced bell peppers to the skillet and continue cooking for about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, add the zucchini slices and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Finally, toss in diced tomatoes and sauté until they start to break down slightly.
5. **Combine Ingredients:**
- In a large baking dish, layer the sliced eggplant over the vegetables.
- Pour the vegetable mixture evenly on top of the eggplant slices.
- Add cannellini beans to the center of the dish, ensuring they are well distributed among the other ingredients.
6. **Season and Top Up:**
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme over all layers in the baking dish for flavor.
- If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it evenly on top as a finishing touch.
- Optional: You can add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
7. **Bake:**
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, until vegetables are tender and bubbly, and the top is golden.
8. **Serve Hot:**
- Let it cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to meld together. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
#### Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, roast the eggplant slices in the oven first before layering them.
- Use fresh herbs if available; they provide a more intense taste and aroma compared to dried ones.
- Adjust cooking times based on your oven's performance for best results.
#### SEO Keywords:
- Baked Ratatouille
- Vegetarian Dishes
- Summer Vegetable Recipes
- Oven-Roasted Vegetables
- Cannellini Beans in Ratatouille
- Thyme and Garlic Ratatouille
By following these steps, you'll create a delicious, colorful, and flavorful baked ratatouille with beans that is sure to impress your guests! Enjoy the process of combining fresh vegetables into a delightful one-dish meal.