Hearty Ratatouille: A Classic French Vegetable Medley

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Ratatouille is a traditional French Provençal stewed vegetable dish, originating in Nice. It is usually served as a side dish, but based on the ingredients, it can also be served as a main dish when accompanied by bread or rice. This rustic and colorful dish is beloved for its comforting taste and rich array of textures.

Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 yellow squash, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 large tomatoes, diced (or use 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Vegetables: Place the diced eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, and bell peppers in a large bowl. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This will help to draw out excess moisture from the vegetables.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat half of the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, for about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients: Rinse the salted vegetables under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Add them to the skillet along with the diced tomatoes (including any juice if using canned). Stir well to combine.

5. Season the Dish: Add the dried thyme, basil, and oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the remaining olive oil over the top.

6. Roast: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the vegetables for about 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and the flavors have melded together.

7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the ratatouille from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot as a main dish with crusty bread or over rice, or as a side dish to complement your favorite protein.

Enjoy your Hearty Ratatouille, bursting with flavors and vibrant colors, embodying the essence of French country cooking!
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