Quick Ratatouille, saffron rice, and steak

Quick ratatouille with saffron-flavored rice and juicy steak: a recipe that brings together the colors and flavors of the garden, offering a delicious and vibrant meal. In this guide, I will take you step by step through the preparation process, adding useful tips and information about the ingredients, so you can achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total time: 50 minutes Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

For Ratatouille:
- 1 small zucchini
- 2 small eggplants
- 2 bell peppers (preferably red and yellow for vibrant colors)
- 1 red onion
- 1 teaspoon harissa (spicy pepper paste)
- 2 anchovies (optional, but recommended for a deeper flavor)
- 2-4 garlic cloves
- 700 ml passata (tomato sauce)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ bunch of fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons yogurt (optional, for serving)

For rice:
- 300 grams rice (preferably basmati or jasmine for a pleasant aroma)
- A pinch of saffron (about 1/4 teaspoon)
- ½ lemon (juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste

For steak:
- 500 grams steak (choose a quality cut like ribeye or filet)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ lemon (juice)

Step by step for a perfect meal:

1. Preparing the vegetables for ratatouille:
Start by washing and peeling the zucchini and eggplants. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then slice it into thin pieces. The eggplant slices should be of the same thickness to cook evenly. The bell peppers should be diced, and the red onion sliced thinly.

2. Cooking the vegetables:
Heat a grill or frying pan over high heat. Place the sliced zucchini and eggplants on the grill to char. This step will add a smoky note and pleasant texture to the dish. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they become tender and have grill marks.

3. Preparing the saffron rice:
In a pot, add the rice, water (1.5 times the volume of rice), and a pinch of salt. Add the saffron, lemon juice, and olive oil. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the rice absorbs all the water and becomes fluffy.

4. Preparing the ratatouille:
In a large skillet, add a teaspoon of the olive oil used to preserve the anchovies, along with the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes, adding the harissa and sliced garlic. The garlic will add an aromatic flavor. Once the onion becomes translucent, add the grilled zucchini and eggplants, passata, and balsamic vinegar. Mix well, cover with a lid, and let it simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes.

5. Preparing the steak:
While the ratatouille is cooking, prepare the steak. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides of the meat. Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the meat and your cooking preferences (rare, medium, or well-done).

6. Finishing and serving:
After the steak is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Meanwhile, chop the fresh parsley and mix it with the mustard, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. This marinade will give the steak a fresh and vibrant note.

7. Plating:
On each plate, place a serving of ratatouille, a spoonful of yogurt, a serving of saffron rice, and slices of steak on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pleasing look and intense aroma.

Serving suggestions:
This quick ratatouille meal with rice and steak pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade. You can also add a simple green salad for an extra touch of freshness.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in vegetables, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants from tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplants. Additionally, the steak provides quality protein, while the saffron rice adds complex carbohydrates. A serving contains approximately 600 calories, though this number can vary depending on the type of meat and cooking method.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables in ratatouille?
Of course! You can add squash, carrots, or even mushrooms, depending on your preferences.

- How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet?
You can make it vegetarian by eliminating the steak and adding plant-based proteins such as chickpeas or lentils.

- What other recipes would pair well with this dish?
This recipe pairs perfectly with a quinoa salad or vegetable soup. Additionally, for dessert, a fresh fruit tart would be an ideal choice.

So, are you ready to try this delicious quick ratatouille recipe with rice and steak? It will surely become a favorite in your kitchen! Bon appétit!