Baked Ratatouille With Parmesan

Ratatouille, a classic French dish bursting with vibrant flavors, is a delightful blend of seasonal vegetables that come together beautifully when baked to perfection. In this recipe, we add a delicious twist by incorporating a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, elevating this traditional favorite to a whole new level. Perfect for cozy family dinners or elegant gatherings, Baked Ratatouille with Parmesan is sure to become a standout on your menu rotation. Let’s dive into the recipe!

**Baked Ratatouille With Parmesan**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into rounds
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 yellow squash, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

2. Start by arranging the sliced eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic in an alternating pattern in the prepared baking dish. This not only ensures an eye-catching presentation but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully as they bake.

3. Drizzle the olive oil over the layered vegetables, making sure to coat them evenly. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano.

4. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

5. Remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the ratatouille. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Once the ratatouille is cooked to perfection and the cheese has developed a golden crust, remove it from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

7. Serve the Baked Ratatouille with Parmesan hot, straight from the oven, either as a standalone dish or alongside crusty bread or fluffy quinoa for a satisfying meal.

Incorporating the rich umami flavor of Parmesan cheese into the classic ratatouille recipe adds a delightful depth of taste that will surely impress your family and guests. Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to customize this dish to your liking. Enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of this French-inspired dish, perfect for any occasion.