Rustic Ratatouille with Herb-infused Quinoa

This classic French dish, Ratatouille, is reinvented with fresh Mediterranean vegetables simmered to perfection in a savory tomato sauce. Served alongside herb-infused quinoa, it makes for a hearty, flavor-packed vegan meal that captures the essence of French cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 eggplant, diced
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add the eggplant, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. While the ratatouille simmers, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a separate pot, bring quinoa and water to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let quinoa cook for 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
6. Serve the ratatouille over a bed of quinoa and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables
• Provides complete protein with the combination of quinoa
• Low in calories and high in dietary fiber
• Naturally low in fat and cholesterol-free
• Supports heart health with antioxidant-rich ingredients

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350 | Protein: 12g | Carbs: 50g | Fat: 11g | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 10g