Vegetable garden

Vegetable Tian - a delicious and healthy recipe, perfect for warm summer days

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 55-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a colorful meal, full of vitamins and enticing aromas? The vegetable tian is a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but will also add a touch of elegance to your table. This savory dish has its origins in culinary traditions, where vegetables were cooked slowly to preserve their flavor and nutrients, and the tian, a clay dish, provides even and gentle cooking.

Basic Ingredients

- 1 zucchini
- 1 eggplant
- 5-6 tomatoes
- 1 onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 150 g cheese (feta, mozzarella, or goat cheese)
- Salt, pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried basil
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil

Ingredient Details

- Zucchini: Choose a young one with smooth skin. It brings a soft texture and a sweet taste.
- Eggplant: It can be left with skin, but if you prefer a finer texture, peel it. The eggplant will add a rich note and a slightly bitter taste that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes to add moisture to the dish. Heirloom tomatoes are an excellent choice due to their intense flavors.
- Cheese: A creamy cheese will add a savory note and a salty taste, ideal for contrasting with the sweetness of the vegetables.

Step by step: Cooking the vegetable tian

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Peel the zucchini (optional) and slice it thinly. Do the same with the eggplant. Cut the tomatoes into thicker slices, and slice the onion thinly. Mince the garlic so that the flavors are released easily during cooking.

2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes transparent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and let it brown for another 1-2 minutes. This mixture will form the flavorful base of the tian.

3. Assemble the tian: In a round baking dish (or any other oven-safe dish), spread the onion and garlic mixture on the bottom. Then, start arranging the vegetables artistically in alternating layers, fan-shaped. For example, alternate slices of zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes.

4. Season the vegetables: Each layer of vegetables is sprinkled with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil. These seasonings will add extra flavor and aroma. Don't forget to drizzle each layer with olive oil to help the vegetables cook evenly.

5. Bake the tian: Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for 40 minutes. This step allows the vegetables to soften and release their flavors.

6. Add the cheese: After 40 minutes, remove the lid or foil and add the cheese cut into small cubes on top of the vegetables. Let the tian bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.

7. Serving and suggestions: Once the tian is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. It can be served warm or cold, as a main dish or a side dish alongside grilled meat or fish. A fresh green salad will perfectly complement this dish.

Possible Variations

- Add other vegetables of your choice, such as carrots, squash, or bell peppers, to diversify the flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese for a stronger flavor or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Replace thyme with oregano or rosemary to change the aromatic profile of the dish.

Nutritional Benefits

The vegetable tian is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. It is rich in fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and antioxidants, which help strengthen the immune system and maintain skin health. Additionally, due to its low-calorie content, it is ideal for those looking to maintain their weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of vegetables?
Of course! The tian is very versatile, and you can add your favorite vegetables.

- How long can the tian be stored?
The tian keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

- Can I freeze the tian?
Although it is recommended to consume the tian fresh, you can freeze it. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Conclusion

The vegetable tian is more than just a recipe; it is a celebration of summer, a tribute to fresh and healthy vegetables. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this dish will bring a splash of color and flavor to any meal. Experiment with your favorite ingredients and enjoy every bite!