Tian D’été (Provençal Style Summer Vegetable Roast)
Description:
This lovely light yet flavorful summer recipe hails from a charming little book called “Recettes d’un Mas Provençal,” which I picked up during a visit to Baux de Provence last summer. Tian D’été is a simple but elegant way to showcase fresh summer vegetables, roasting them slowly to bring out their natural sweetness and flavors. The vibrant combination of zucchini, tomatoes, potatoes, and aromatic herbs make this dish perfect for a warm evening meal, whether served as a main dish or a hearty side.
Recipe Category: Vegetable
Keywords: European, Summer, < 4 Hours, Easy
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 185.7 kcal
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 3 |
| Fresh tomatoes | 4 |
| Potatoes | 3 |
| Onion | 1 |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Parsley | 3 sprigs |
| Fresh thyme | 1 sprig |
| Olive oil | 1/3 cup |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 185.7 kcal |
| Fat | 5.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 259.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 31.7 g |
| Fiber | 5.1 g |
| Sugars | 5.9 g |
| Protein | 5.2 g |
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure that the vegetables roast slowly and evenly, developing a rich and tender texture.
-
Prepare the Breadcrumb and Herb Mixture:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs (you can use homemade or store-bought), finely chopped parsley, thyme leaves, and minced garlic. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a shallow, ovenproof dish. Spread the oil evenly to coat the bottom. Then, scatter the chopped onion across the base of the dish. The onion will soften and caramelize as it bakes, adding a sweet, aromatic layer to the dish.
-
Layer the Vegetables:
- Begin layering the sliced zucchini, potatoes, and tomatoes in the dish. For the best flavor and presentation, alternate the vegetables as you go, forming neat rows or a spiral pattern. As you layer, sprinkle a bit of the breadcrumb mixture between each layer of vegetables. This will add texture and an herby flavor to every bite.
-
Final Breadcrumb Layer:
- Once all the vegetables are layered, sprinkle the remaining breadcrumb mixture over the top. This will create a delicious, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables beneath.
-
Bake the Tian:
- Cover the dish with foil to help the vegetables cook through without drying out. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 1 ½ to 2 hours. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the top to brown and crisp up.
-
Serve:
- Once the tian is beautifully golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish is delicious served hot, but it’s equally enjoyable at room temperature, making it perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches.
Enjoy this Provençal delight with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a slice of crusty bread, if you wish. Bon appétit!
