There’s something special about the way a dish can transport us back in time. The aromas and flavors can awaken memories long forgotten, reminding us of moments shared with loved ones or experiences that shaped our lives. Today, I want to introduce you to a dish that holds a special place in my heart – Vegetable Tian.

Vegetable Tian is a layered vegetable bake that originated in the beautiful region of Provence, France. The dish captures the essence of Provencal cuisine – fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavors. It is a celebration of the abundant produce found in this sun-kissed paradise, where the ingredients are allowed to shine.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together and experience the magic of Vegetable Tian.

## Ingredients

To make this Vegetable Tian, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 large tomatoes
– 2 small zucchinis
– 2 small yellow squash
– 2 small potatoes
– 1 large onion
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

## Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, let’s prepare the vegetables for our Vegetable Tian.

– First, thinly slice the tomatoes, zucchinis, yellow squash, potatoes, and onion. For evenly sliced vegetables, you can use a mandoline or a sharp knife. Keep the slices about 1/4 inch thick. Set them aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and garlic cloves, and sauté them until they turn soft and translucent. This will take about 5 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Vegetable Tian

Now, let’s bring all the flavors and textures together by layering the vegetables in a baking dish. Use a round or rectangular baking dish that is oven-safe.

– Start by spreading a thin layer of the sautéed onion and garlic mixture at the bottom of the baking dish.
– Arrange the sliced vegetables in an alternating pattern, overlapping them slightly. You can start with a ring of potato slices, followed by zucchini, yellow squash, and tomato slices. Repeat this pattern until you fill the baking dish.
– Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the assembled vegetables. Season with dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the Vegetable Tian, if desired. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Once cooked to perfection, remove the Vegetable Tian from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. These fragrant leaves add a delightful freshness to the dish.

Serve the Vegetable Tian hot as a side dish or even as a light vegetarian main course. Its colorful presentation and rich flavors will undoubtedly impress your family and friends.

## Tips and Variations

– For an extra kick of flavor, you can sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese on top of the Vegetable Tian before baking it.
– Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Bell peppers, eggplants, or even thinly sliced sweet potatoes can make delicious additions.
– If you’re looking to make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

The Vegetable Tian is a dish that embodies the spirit of Provence – simple, rustic, and full of flavor. With its stunning presentation and vibrant taste, this layered vegetable bake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or a comforting weeknight meal for your loved ones.

Enjoy the journey of creating this delightful dish, and may it transport you to a place of warmth and joy, just as it does for me.