Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
150 | 11g | 2g | 13g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
7g | 5g | 4g | 0.3g |
Why I Love French Tian de légumes à l’ail et aux herbes
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There’s something truly hypnotic about the colors and layers of the Tian de légumes à l’ail et aux herbes. This vibrant French vegetable bake not only offers a feast for the eyes but also delivers a symphony of flavors that sing in perfect harmony. The slower, deliberate process of layering each vegetable slice makes me pause and appreciate the sheer beauty of fresh produce.
A Connection to My Tex-Mex Roots
Growing up in Texas, my palate was trained on the rich and robust flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. While this dish hails from Provence rather than Texas, the concept of layering and slow-cooking vegetables reminds me of the comforting, hearty casseroles my grandmother used to make. The thinly sliced zucchinis and eggplants, mingling with tomatoes and the aromatic hints of garlic and herbs, bring a sense of familiarity even in its French origin.
Adding a Modern Twist
Teaching young minds during the day often leaves me craving simplicity yet quality in the kitchen. The Tian de légumes à l’ail et aux herbes is a dish that respects traditional flavors while being remarkably straightforward to prepare. By incorporating a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top, I’ve added a modern twist that melds beautifully with the earthiness of the vegetables and herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil.
With a drizzle of olive oil enhancing its richness, every bite resonates with warmth and satisfaction. This French gem beautifully complements grilled meats or stands strong as a star in a vegetarian feast. For a Tex-Mex pairing, consider serving it alongside a hearty dish like Tex-Mex Chicken Spaghetti. Together, they create a delightful juxtaposition of culinary worlds.
Inspired by the Best
It’s impossible to speak about Provencal dishes without mentioning the inspiring works of chef Julia Child. Her dedication to French cuisine has not only influenced my appreciation for dishes like this but also countless home cooks around the world. Though this recipe is a simple one, it upholds the elegance and soul of French cooking, much like Child’s own ethos.
If you’re looking for a similar dish that emphasizes the beauty of fresh vegetables, consider trying ratatouille. Like the tian, ratatouille showcases the harmonious blend of garden vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a rustic yet refined experience.
Ultimately, the joy of making and sharing this dish lies in its rooted simplicity and the celebration of exceptional ingredients. The Tian de légumes à l’ail et aux herbes is a culinary journey that brings a touch of Provencal magic to your kitchen.
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What You’ll Need
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 1 1/2 lbs), thinly sliced
- 2 medium eggplants (about 1 1/2 lbs), thinly sliced
- 4 medium tomatoes (about 1 1/2 lbs), thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or tian with olive oil.
Step Two
Layer the thinly sliced zucchinis, eggplants, tomatoes, and yellow onion in the prepared baking dish, alternating between the vegetables to create a visually appealing pattern.
Step Three
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and dried basil. Mix well to form a fragrant herb and garlic oil.
Step Four
Drizzle the herb and garlic oil evenly over the layered vegetables. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Five
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step Six
If using Parmesan cheese, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking and sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Continue baking until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step Seven
Once cooked, remove the tian from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Tian de légumes à l’ail et aux herbes warm as a side dish or a light main course.