Summer Vegetable Ratatouille

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Summer Vegetable Ratatouille is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather. It’s easy to make and packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

• Simple and quick to prepare, it’s a great way to use up summer veggies from your garden or farmers’ market.
• Versatile and customizable, you can serve it as a main dish, side, or even toss it with pasta for a hearty meal.
• Healthy and satisfying, it’s loaded with nutrients and bursting with natural flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Recipe

Summer Vegetable Ratatouille is a vibrant and healthy dish that celebrates the bounty of seasonal produce. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for showcasing fresh vegetables in a simple yet flavorful way.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the diced eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, thyme, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the ratatouille simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes:

• This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for picnics or potlucks.
• For added richness, top with crumbled feta or grated Parmesan.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: Approximately 150 per serving

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

This summer vegetable ratatouille is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love serving summer vegetable ratatouille with crusty bread or fluffy couscous to soak up all the delicious flavors. It also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal, or you can keep it light with a simple green salad. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil to finish it off perfectly!

Pairing Suggestions

Ratatouille’s rich, vibrant flavors make it a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For wine pairings, I love a crisp rosé or a light Pinot Noir—they complement the dish without overpowering it. A simple side salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a rejuvenating contrast to the hearty stew. Crusty bread is another go-to for soaking up the delicious sauce. I’ve found that keeping the sides light lets the ratatouille shine. Trust me, these combinations turn a humble vegetable dish into a meal that feels special.

Complementary Dishes

Ever wondered what dishes can make your summer vegetable ratatouille the star of the meal? I love pairing it with grain sides like fluffy quinoa or nutty couscous—they soak up the rich flavors so well. Adding herb pairings, such as fresh basil or thyme, boosts the dish’s aroma and taste. A crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up every last bit, and I often serve it with a simple green salad for a brisk crunch. Sometimes, I’ll include roasted chicken or grilled fish for extra protein. With these combos, your ratatouille never fails to shine!