Vegetable garden

Vegetable Tian

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Discover the charm of vegetable tian, a traditional Mediterranean dish that blends the colors and flavors of fresh vegetables. This recipe is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a visual feast, perfect for summer meals or to bring a touch of freshness to dinner. With a combination of healthy vegetables and aromatic spices, vegetable tian is an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients:

- 2 zucchinis
- 2 small eggplants
- 3 tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper
- 3 white potatoes
- 2 sweet potatoes
- 1 red onion
- 1 green onion
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Herbs de Provence (or any preferred mix of aromatic herbs)
- Grated cheese, for topping
- Grated Parmesan, for topping

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the red onion. This will add a sweet and aromatic base to your dish. Heat a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until translucent and slightly golden, about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the sautéed onion to a greased baking dish.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Wash all the vegetables with skin thoroughly. Use a clean towel to dry them. Cut the zucchinis, eggplants, tomatoes, bell pepper, white potatoes, and sweet potatoes into round, even slices about 1 cm thick. Ensure all slices are similar in size for even cooking.

3. Assembling the tian: Arrange the vegetable slices in layers, starting with the white and sweet potatoes, followed by zucchinis, eggplants, tomatoes, and bell pepper. Each layer can be seasoned with salt, pepper, and a generous portion of herbs de Provence. These dried herbs bring a unique flavor typical of Mediterranean dishes. Continue until all vegetables are used, ensuring the top layer is covered with tomatoes for a touch of freshness.

4. Baking the tian: Once all the vegetables are arranged, drizzle everything with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the vegetables, and place the tian in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for 50 minutes. This step will allow the vegetables to soften and release their flavors.

5. Adding the cheeses: After 50 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and carefully remove the aluminum foil. Sprinkle the grated cheese and Parmesan on top to add a crunchy texture and delicious flavor. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and let it bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is golden and appetizing.

6. Serving: Once the tian is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. Serve warm, as an appetizer or main dish, alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread. It’s also perfect to enjoy the next day, being even tastier after sitting overnight in the refrigerator.

Practical tips:

- Seasonal vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and freshness. The variety and quality of the vegetables will significantly affect the final result.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables such as carrots, squash, or mushrooms. You can also add chopped garlic or chili pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
- Serving: Vegetable tian can be accompanied by a garlic and dill yogurt sauce or a lemon and olive oil dressing to add a touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits:

Vegetable tian is a healthy choice, packed with vitamins and minerals. The vegetables used are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and maintains a strong immune system. Additionally, this dish is low in calories due to its cooking method, making it an ideal option for those who want to adopt a healthier diet without giving up taste.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cheese and Parmesan with mozzarella or feta, depending on your preferences.
- How long can it be stored? Vegetable tian keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Is it a vegan dish? If you omit the cheese, the tian becomes a completely vegan dish, excellent for those following a diet without animal products.

In conclusion, preparing a vegetable tian is a pleasant and creative activity that brings family and friends together around the table. It is a simple, quick, and versatile recipe that can be adapted to your tastes or the season you are in. By experimenting with ingredients and flavors, you will discover unique combinations that will delight both your eyes and your taste buds. Enjoy every bite and relish the health benefits that this delicious dish brings!