Ingredients:
- 2 bell peppers (red or yellow)
- 1 medium-sized eggplant
- 1 zucchini
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Step 2: Saute the Vegetables
- Step 3: Add the Eggplant and Zucchini
- Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Start by washing and cutting the bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, onion, and garlic cloves. Remove the seeds and stem from the bell peppers and dice them into small pieces. Cube the eggplant and zucchini, roughly chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Keep the vegetables aside.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until onion becomes translucent. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Add the diced eggplant and zucchini to the pan. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the oil, onions, and garlic. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Pour the can of diced tomatoes into the pan, followed by the tomato paste. Stir until well combined. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and allow the mixture to simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes. The peperonata is ready to serve! This dish can be enjoyed on its own as a vegetarian option or used as a delicious topping for grilled meats or pasta. Buon appetito!
Peperonata with eggplant and zucchini is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in different ways. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser in any setting. Next time you want to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious Italian meal, give this recipe a try. Let the freshness of the vegetables and the warmth of Italian spices transport you to the heart of Italy.