Provençal Vegetable Medley

Provençal Vegetable Medley Recipe - Vegetarian French Cuisine

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 5 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Provençal Vegetable Medley is a delicious and colorful dish that showcases the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean region. This dish is a perfect way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one tasty and nutritious meal.

History

This recipe originates from the Provence region of France, known for its abundant sunshine and fertile soil that produce an array of fresh and flavorful vegetables. The combination of garlic, herbs, and olive oil in this dish reflects the traditional flavors of Provençal cuisine.

Ingredients

4 cloves of garlic, minced
0.5 cup of chopped fresh basil
0.25 cup of minced fresh chervil or parsley
1 tbsp of minced fresh marjoram or 1 tsp of dried
1 red onion, thinly sliced
2 baking potatoes, peeled and cut into slices that are 0.25 inches thick
1 large zucchini, cut diagonally into slices that are 0.25 inches thick
2 large portobello mushroom caps, cut into slices that are 0.25 inches thick
2 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
0.25 cup of olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Lightly oil a 9x13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
In a bowl, combine garlic, basil, chervil, and marjoram.
Layer the vegetables in the baking dish, slightly overlapping them.
Drizzle each layer with olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic-herb mixture, salt, and pepper.
Repeat the layering process until all the vegetables are used.
Press down gently and drizzle any remaining olive oil over the top.
Cover the dish tightly with foil.
Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Uncover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let it stand for about 30 minutes before serving.
Pour the juices from the pan into a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
Reduce the heat to medium and cook until the juices are reduced to a syrup, approximately 20 minutes.
Spoon the syrup over the vegetables.
Cut into squares and serve at room temperature.

Variations

Add some crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan on top before serving.
Include other vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, or yellow squash.
Add some cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking.

- Layering the vegetables in the baking dish allows the flavors to meld together as they cook.

- Drizzling olive oil and seasoning between each layer ensures that the vegetables are well seasoned.

- Allowing the dish to rest before serving allows the flavors to develop even further.

Serving Suggestions

Provençal Vegetable Medley can be served as a side dish or as a main course with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is layering the vegetables in a baking dish and baking them until tender. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious and colorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use dried herbs instead of fresh if fresh herbs are not available.

- Any type of mushrooms can be used in place of portobello mushrooms.

- Sweet potatoes can be used instead of baking potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Provençal Vegetable Medley up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Provençal Vegetable Medley on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. You can also drizzle the syrup from the pan over the top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. A glass of crisp white wine or rosé would also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Provençal Vegetable Medley in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Provençal Vegetable Medley contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Provençal Vegetable Medley contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Provençal Vegetable Medley contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Provençal Vegetable Medley contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber from the variety of vegetables used.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. However, it does contain olive oil, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Provençal Vegetable Medley is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet.

Summary

Provençal Vegetable Medley is a flavorful and nutritious dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. With a variety of vegetables, herbs, and olive oil, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy a taste of Provence.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Provençal Vegetable Medley. It was a warm summer day in the south of France, and I was visiting a quaint little village nestled in the hills. As I strolled through the bustling market, the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of fresh produce caught my eye.

I found myself drawn to a small stand where a friendly older woman was selling a variety of vegetables grown in her own garden. She had a twinkle in her eye and a warm smile that instantly put me at ease. I struck up a conversation with her, and before I knew it, she was sharing her recipe for Provençal Vegetable Medley with me.

The woman explained that this dish was a staple in her family for generations, passed down from mother to daughter. She spoke of the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients and taking the time to savor each flavor. Her passion and love for cooking were palpable, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

As she listed off the ingredients – zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs – my mouth watered in anticipation. She explained the simple preparation steps, the art of layering flavors, and the importance of allowing the vegetables to slowly simmer together to create a harmonious dish.

I eagerly purchased the ingredients from her stand and hurried back to my rented cottage to try my hand at making the Provençal Vegetable Medley. The kitchen was small but cozy, with a window overlooking a lush garden. I chopped the vegetables with care, inhaling their earthy scents as I worked.

As the vegetables sautéed in a fragrant blend of olive oil and garlic, I felt a sense of connection to the woman at the market. I imagined her hands expertly crafting this dish, her love infused into every bite. The medley simmered on the stove, filling the cottage with a tantalizing aroma that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. I took a tentative bite and was instantly transported to the sun-drenched hills of Provence. The flavors were bold and vibrant, each vegetable shining in its own right while harmonizing with the others.

I savored each bite, feeling grateful for the serendipitous encounter with the woman at the market. Her recipe had not only filled my belly but had also filled my soul with a sense of joy and connection to the rich culinary traditions of the region.

Since that day, the Provençal Vegetable Medley has become a staple in my own kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was so generously shared with me. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that warm summer day in France and the kindness of a stranger who opened my eyes to the beauty of simple, delicious food.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that memory, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who have shaped my love of cooking. The Provençal Vegetable Medley will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring us together and nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am truly thankful.