Discover the ultimate celebration of Mediterranean flavors in this Ratatouille Rice Gratin – a dish that transforms classic French vegetable stew into a hearty, cheesy, one-pan wonder. Bursting with colorful vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a golden, crispy cheese topping, this recipe brings the sunny essence of Provence right to your dinner table. Perfect for vegetarians, veggie lovers, and anyone craving a nutritious, delicious meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
- Rice: 200g (7 oz / 1 cup) long grain rice
- Eggplant: 1 medium, cubed
- Zucchini: 1 medium, cubed
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, cubed
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomatoes: 400g (14 oz) chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Herbes de Provence: 1 teaspoon
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper
- Cheese: 100g (3.5 oz) grated Gruyère, Emmental, or mozzarella
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for extra gratin crispiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
- Cook rice in a large pot of salted water
- Follow package instructions
- Drain and set aside
2. Prepare the Vegetables
- Cube eggplant, zucchini, and red bell pepper
- Finely chop onion and garlic
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet
- Sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes
- Add cubed vegetables
- Sauté for 10 minutes over medium heat
3. Create the Ratatouille Base
- Add chopped tomatoes to the skillet
- Sprinkle herbes de Provence
- Season with salt and pepper
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes until vegetables are tender
4. Assemble the Gratin
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Mix cooked rice with ratatouille vegetables
- Transfer to a gratin dish
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top
- Optional: Add a light dusting of Parmesan
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 15-20 minutes
- Cook until cheese is golden and bubbly
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Highlights (per serving)
- High in vegetable nutrients
- Good source of fiber
- Low in animal protein
- Rich in antioxidants
Why This Recipe is a Healthy Choice
This Ratatouille Rice Gratin is a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with a rainbow of vegetables, it delivers a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Eggplant provides fiber and antioxidants, zucchini offers vitamin C and potassium, while tomatoes bring lycopene – known for its heart-health benefits. The dish is naturally low in calories but high in flavor and nutritional value.
Pro Tip
For added protein, consider mixing in some cooked chickpeas or tofu before baking. This will make the dish more filling and boost its nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot, straight from the oven
- Pair with a light green salad
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves
- Excellent as a main course or side dish
A true taste of Mediterranean cuisine that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious!