Classic French Ratatouille

Ratatouille is the jewel of Provençal French cooking — a slow-cooked medley of Mediterranean vegetables that transforms humble ingredients into something remarkable. Originating in Nice, this dish was traditionally made by farmers using whatever summer vegetables were abundant. Today, the thinly sliced, overlapping arrangement has become iconic, particularly after the beloved Pixar film brought it global fame. Every vegetable contributes a different texture and flavour that blends during the long bake into a harmonious, deeply satisfying whole. Ratatouille is equally delicious served hot or at room temperature, and actually improves the next day.

• ✅ 1 aubergine, sliced
• ✅ 2 courgettes, sliced
• ✅ 3 tomatoes, sliced
• ✅ 1 red & 1 yellow pepper, diced
• ✅ 1 onion, diced
• ✅ 4 garlic cloves
• ✅ 4 tbsp olive oil
• ✅ Herbes de Provence, salt, pepper
• ✅ Fresh basil

1. 1Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F).
2. 2Sauté onion, garlic, and peppers in olive oil for 10 minutes.
3. 3Spread sautéed mixture in an ovenproof dish as base.
4. 4Arrange alternating slices of aubergine, courgette, and tomato on top in a spiral.
5. 5Drizzle with olive oil, season, sprinkle with herbes de Provence.
6. 6Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes.
7. 7Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes.
8. 8Garnish with fresh basil and serve.