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Slow-cooked, richly flavored, and bursting with sunshine!

Few dishes capture the heart of Provençal cuisine like ratatouille. Originating from the sun-drenched town of Nice, this humble French stew brings together vibrant summer vegetables, olive oil, and fragrant herbs in one irresistible pot. Whether you serve it warm or cold, as a side or a main dish, ratatouille is the ultimate celebration of seasonal produce—and it’s 100% vegan and naturally gluten-free.

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Why You’ll Love This Ratatouille

• Mediterranean magic in every bite
• Healthy and hearty, packed with fiber and antioxidants
• Versatile – enjoy it as a side dish, over rice, with crusty bread, or even with eggs
• Make-ahead friendly – it tastes even better the next day!

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Ingredients

Vegetables:

• 2 large eggplants, diced (about 4 cups)
• 3 zucchini, diced (about 3 cups)
• 2 red bell peppers, diced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced (about 3 cups)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced

For Flavor:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme (or 2 tsp dried)
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics:

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

2. Cook the Eggplant & Peppers:

Add the eggplant and red bell peppers, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant starts to soften and absorb flavor.

3. Add Zucchini:

Stir in the zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes until lightly golden and tender.

4. Simmer with Tomatoes & Herbs:

Add the diced tomatoes, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then reduce the heat to low.

5. Simmer Low & Slow:

Cover and let the ratatouille simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should be tender, but still hold their shape.

6. Let It Rest:

Turn off the heat and allow the dish to rest for 30 minutes, letting the flavors deepen and meld. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

7. Garnish & Serve:

Just before serving, sprinkle over the fresh basil and adjust seasoning to taste.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm or room temp with crusty French bread
• Spoon over rice, couscous, or polenta for a filling main dish
• Top with a fried or poached egg for a vegetarian brunch
• Pair with grilled fish, chicken, or lamb for a Mediterranean dinner

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.

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Nutrition (Per Serving – approx. 6 servings)

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 5g

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A Taste of Provence

This classic French ratatouille is more than just a vegetable stew—it’s a rustic, nourishing dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. It’s comfort food that’s as vibrant and beautiful as it is wholesome.

Bon appétit!

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