Imagine a dish so beautiful it looks like an edible work of art, bursting with vibrant colors and fresh Mediterranean flavors. The Vegetable Tian is not just a side dish – it's a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny countryside of Provence. With its stunning layered presentation and incredibly simple preparation, this French classic proves that healthy eating can be both elegant and absolutely delicious.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 yellow squashes, thinly sliced
- 3 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- Slice all vegetables uniformly using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer: zucchinis, yellow squashes, tomatoes, and onion should be cut into thin, approximately 1/8-inch thick rounds.
- In a small skillet, sauté minced garlic and sliced onions in 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until the onions become translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- Spread the sautéed onion and garlic mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the vegetable slices vertically and alternately in a diagonal or slightly overlapping pattern, creating a visually appealing arrangement of zucchini, yellow squash, and tomato slices.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the arranged vegetables. Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to caramelize and develop a slightly crisp top.
- Remove from the oven and let the tian rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and settle.
- Garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves and serve hot as a side dish or light vegetarian main course.
Tips
- Uniform Slicing is Key: Use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife to ensure all vegetable slices are exactly the same thickness. This not only makes your tian look professional but also ensures even cooking.
- Choose Fresh, Seasonal Vegetables: While this recipe calls for zucchini, squash, and tomatoes, the beauty of a tian is its versatility. Select the freshest, most colorful vegetables available for the best flavor and presentation.
- Don't Rush the Caramelization: The last 15 minutes of uncovered baking are crucial for developing deep, rich flavors. Watch carefully to achieve a perfect golden-brown top without burning.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the tian to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.
- Experiment with Herbs: While fresh thyme is traditional, try rosemary, basil, or oregano to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
- Serve Creatively: This dish is versatile – enjoy it as a stunning side dish, a light vegetarian main course, or even as a impressive brunch centerpiece.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
