Chunky chargrilled ratatouille
Chunky chargrilled ratatouille combines red onion, red pepper, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes, enhanced by a smoky grill flavor. This hearty, vegetable-packed dish is perfect for both vegans and vegetarians, ideal as a side or main course.
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
1 red onion1 red pepper
1 eggplant
1.50 cups cherry tomatoes
2 garlic cloves
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp fresh thyme
Chunky chargrilled ratatouille is a delicious and hearty way to enjoy a medley of fresh vegetables, making it a perfect dish for both vegans and vegetarians. The chargrilling process adds a lovely smoky flavor that will elevate the taste of traditional ratatouille. This version uses red onion, red pepper, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh thyme to create a vibrant and flavorful dish suitable for any occasion.
Instructions:
- Peel and chop the red onion into large chunks.
- Core and slice the red pepper into thick strips.
- Cut the eggplant into thick rounds or large chunks.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Strip the leaves from the thyme sprigs.
- If using an outdoor grill, preheat it to medium-high heat.
- If using an oven with broil settings, preheat the broiler.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped red onion, red pepper, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the vegetables with the 1/4 cup of olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss everything together until all the vegetables are well-coated with oil and seasoning.
- If using an outdoor grill, place a grill basket or grill mat on the grill to prevent smaller pieces from falling through.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the grill basket or mat.
- Grill the vegetables, turning occasionally, until they are tender and charred in spots, about 10-15 minutes. Each vegetable should have a nice char but still retain its shape.
- If using a broiler, spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and place under the broiler. Broil until vegetables are charred and tender, turning them halfway through, for about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the vegetables from the grill or broiler and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Check for seasoning and add more salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve the chunky chargrilled ratatouille warm as a side dish or over rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a main course.
Chunky chargrilled ratatouille is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. With its robust flavors and beautiful presentation, this dish is sure to be a hit at any meal. The combination of chargrilled vegetables and aromatic seasonings makes it a wonderfully versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to your favorite main course. Embrace the flavors of fresh, seasonal produce and enjoy making and eating this vibrant ratatouille.
Chunky chargrilled ratatouille FAQ:
The vegetables are done grilling when they are tender and have a nice charred appearance, usually around 10-15 minutes on medium-high heat. Turn them occasionally for even cooking and check for personal preference in doneness.
Yes, you can substitute vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or summer squash for the eggplant and cherry tomatoes, depending on your personal taste and what's in season.
Store any leftover ratatouille in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Yes, you can prepare the ratatouille in advance. Grill the vegetables and store them in the fridge. It can be served cold or reheated, enhancing the flavors even further.
Use a large baking sheet, preferably rimmed, to ensure the vegetables are in a single layer with enough space for proper broiling. This helps them cook evenly and achieve a good char.
Tips:
- Ensure to cut the vegetables into even-sized chunks to promote even cooking and a harmonious presentation.
- Preheat your grill properly to get that perfect char on the vegetables. The high heat will help caramelize the natural sugars in the vegetables, enhancing their taste.
- Brush the vegetables generously with olive oil before grilling to prevent them from sticking to the grill and to add a rich flavor.
- Grill the vegetables in batches if needed to make sure they have enough space to cook evenly.
- Add the fresh thyme at the end of the cooking process to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like basil or oregano to add different flavor dimensions to your ratatouille.
- For a heartier meal, serve the chunky chargrilled ratatouille over a bed of rice, quinoa, or alongside crusty bread.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 63kcal
Protein 2.43g
Carbohydrates 15g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 9g
Fat 16g