French Ratatouille (Layered Style)

June 19, 2025

French Ratatouille (Layered Style)

Prep: 25 mins
Cook: 1 hour
Yields: 4-6
Categories: dinner, french, european
Diets: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, european
Difficulties: advanced

Overview

Ratatouille is a traditional French Provençal dish made with layered roasted vegetables and a rich tomato base. This elevated, restaurant-style version is visually stunning and deeply flavorful. It’s perfect for advanced home cooks looking to impress with a wholesome, plant-based centerpiece.

Equipment

  • - Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
  • - Cast-iron skillet or oven-safe round pan
  • - Stove and oven
  • - Parchment paper or foil
  • - Basting brush

Instructions

1.

Make the Sauce*
  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Spread the sauce evenly in the bottom of a round baking dish.

2.

Prepare the Vegetables*
  • Slice all vegetables into 1/8-inch thick rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife.
  • Arrange them in alternating layers (e.g., eggplant, zucchini, squash, pepper, tomato) over the tomato sauce in a spiral or row pattern.

3.

Bake the Ratatouille*
  • Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Cover with parchment or foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
  • Uncover and bake for another 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

4.

Finish and Serve*
  • Optionally, brush with herb oil before serving. Serve hot or at room temperature with crusty bread.

Ingredients

Tips

  • - Slice vegetables evenly for consistent cooking and better presentation.
  • - Can be made a day ahead—flavors improve overnight.
  • - Serve as a main dish or side with polenta, rice, or lentils.

Nutritional Info

  • - Calories: ~180 kcal
  • - Protein: 4g
  • - Fat: 8g
  • - Carbs: 22g
  • - Notes: Vegan, gluten-free, high in fiber and antioxidants. A heart-healthy dish.

Leave a Comment

Follow Us Instragram