Golden Provençal Vegetable Bake

This Provençal Vegetable Tian is a celebration of summer’s bounty, transforming a simple array of garden-fresh vegetables into an impressive, healthy, and deeply flavorful vegetarian side dish or light main. Originating from the sun-drenched region of Provence in France, this rustic yet elegant bake is perfect for utilizing an abundance of vibrant seasonal produce.

This beloved recipe was first shared in August 2017, and it has remained a firm favorite for showcasing the best of summer vegetables. I’ve recently refreshed the content and updated the photos to bring this timeless dish back into the spotlight. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Provence!

Embracing the Summer Harvest: A Garden-Inspired Delight

There’s something truly special about cooking with ingredients straight from the garden. The sheer freshness, the vibrant colors, and the unparalleled flavor elevate any dish. Today’s delightful collection of seasonal vegetables comes courtesy of my wonderful Uncle Billy and Aunt Alexa’s flourishing garden. A huge thank you to them for their generosity!

Isn’t it fantastic when friends or family members have a passion for gardening? Especially when they’re always eager to share their harvest, perhaps even turning a blind eye to a stealthy visit from their food-blogger sister-in-law who might just “borrow” a few choice veggies when no one’s looking. It’s all in the spirit of culinary inspiration, of course!

And what a garden it is! It’s absolutely bursting with life, boasting the most magnificent, juicy red tomatoes of at least five different varieties, two distinct types of eggplant, a rainbow of red, green, and yellow bell peppers, fiery jalapeños and cayennes, long hots, crisp cucumbers, tender zucchini, abundant pole beans, and pungent white onions. Truly an impressive list, wouldn’t you agree?

So, when I “happened” to stop by to say hello, and Uncle Billy graciously offered me some of his incredible bounty, there was no way I was going to decline. The recipe for this exquisite Provençal Vegetable Tian had been dancing in my head for weeks, and this was the perfect opportunity to bring it to life with the freshest possible ingredients!

What is a Provençal Vegetable Tian? A Taste of Southern France

If the term “tian” is new to you, let me introduce you to this delightful French culinary tradition. A tian refers to both the shallow, earthenware baking dish in which the dish is traditionally prepared and the dish itself. At its heart, a tian is a simple yet elegant preparation of thinly sliced vegetables, often cooked in olive oil and then artfully layered in a baking dish before being baked to perfection, typically “au gratin” with a crispy topping.

This particular Provençal Vegetable Tian embodies the rustic charm of Southern French cooking. It’s often compared to Ratatouille, another classic Provençal dish, but a tian distinguishes itself with its emphasis on neatly layered, distinct slices of vegetables rather than a stewed mixture. It’s a dish that highlights the natural beauty and fresh flavors of each ingredient, making it one of the most impressive, yet surprisingly easy and undeniably delicious, summer creations. I like to think of this French classic as the epitome of healthy comfort food.

Why This Provençal Vegetable Tian Will Be Your Summer Favorite

If your garden is overflowing with fresh produce this summer, or if you simply appreciate healthy and vibrant meals, this Provençal Vegetable Tian is an absolute must-try. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Celebrates Seasonal Produce: It’s the ideal recipe to use up those abundant summer vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes, ensuring no delicious harvest goes to waste.
• Impressively Elegant: Despite its simplicity, the beautiful layered presentation makes this dish look incredibly sophisticated, perfect for entertaining guests or a special family meal.
• Incredibly Easy to Prepare: Don’t let its elegant appearance fool you. The steps are straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutritious vegetables, olive oil, and fresh herbs, it’s a guilt-free dish that aligns perfectly with a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired diet. It’s naturally vegetarian, and can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan.
• Versatile & Adaptable: While fantastic as a standalone vegetarian main, it also shines as a vibrant side dish for grilled meats or fish.
• Flavorful & Aromatic: The combination of roasted peppers, sautéed onions and garlic, sun-ripened vegetables, and fresh thyme creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the south of France.

Essential Ingredients for Your Provençal Vegetable Tian

Creating this delicious tian requires a collection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips for selection:

• Red Bell Peppers: Two large peppers are ideal. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and makes them incredibly tender.
• Olive Oil: About 5 tablespoons. A good quality extra virgin olive oil is crucial here, as its flavor will permeate the entire dish.
• Yellow Onion: One large onion, medium chopped, forms the aromatic base. Choose one that is firm and without sprouts.
• Garlic: Two cloves, minced, to add depth and warmth to the onion base.
• Eggplant: Two long, thin eggplants. Look for firm, shiny eggplants without blemishes. Slice them crosswise into 1/4-inch rounds for even cooking and elegant layering.
• Yellow Summer Squash: Two medium squashes. Like eggplant, choose firm ones and slice them into 1/4-inch rounds. Zucchini can also be used or combined.
• Roma Tomatoes: 4-5 Roma tomatoes are perfect for their firm flesh and lower water content. Slice them crosswise into 1/4-inch rounds.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer and enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves: Two tablespoons. Fresh herbs make a significant difference; dried thyme can be used in a pinch but reduce the quantity.
• Nonpareil Capers: Two tablespoons. These tiny, briny flower buds add a wonderful salty and tangy counterpoint to the sweet vegetables.
• Italian Seasoned Panko Crumbs: Two tablespoons. Panko provides a lighter, crispier topping than traditional breadcrumbs. Seasoned panko adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: One tablespoon. Provides a savory, umami-rich crust. Freshly grated is always best.

Step-By-Step Guide to Crafting Your Perfect Provençal Vegetable Tian

Follow these detailed instructions to create a beautiful and delicious Provençal Vegetable Tian that will impress everyone at your table.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

1. Prepare the Roasted Red Peppers:
   • Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230°C).
   • Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with one tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until their skins are visibly charred and blistered. Make sure to turn them twice during the roasting process to ensure even charring.
   • Once roasted, remove the peppers from the oven and immediately transfer them to a bowl, covering it tightly with aluminum foil. Let the peppers steam and sit for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to loosen the skins for easy peeling.
   • After cooling, remove the stem, cut the peppers into quarters, and carefully peel away the charred skins and remove the seeds. Then, cut the roasted pepper flesh into 1/2-inch strips and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Aromatic Base:
   • Lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C).
   • Lightly brush a round baking dish (a 10-inch dish works wonderfully) with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside.
   • In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chopped yellow onions to the skillet and season them with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
   • Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes, or until they become translucent and beautifully softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
   • Evenly spread this aromatic onion and garlic mixture across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This creates a flavorful foundation for the vegetables.
3. Assemble the Layered Vegetables:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced eggplant, yellow summer squash (or zucchini), and Roma tomatoes.
   • Drizzle the vegetables with the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Add one tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves and toss everything gently to ensure all vegetables are lightly coated.
   • Now, comes the artistic part: arrange the seasoned vegetables in your baking dish in an overlapping pattern, as typically shown in pictures of tian. Alternate between eggplant, squash, tomatoes, and the roasted red pepper strips, creating a visually stunning mosaic. Make sure they are packed snugly but not overly compressed.
   • Drizzle any remaining oil from the bowl over the arranged vegetables.
   • Sprinkle the remaining one tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves and the capers evenly over the layered vegetables.
   • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. Covering the dish helps the vegetables steam and become tender without drying out.
4. The Golden Finish:
   • After 45 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish.
   • Evenly sprinkle the Italian seasoned panko crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the vegetables.
   • Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes, or until the topping is lightly browned and crispy, and the vegetables are tender throughout.
   • Once baked to perfection, remove the tian from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to set slightly. Serve warm.

You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this dish comes together, despite its sophisticated appearance. Give it a try just once, and I have a feeling it will become a cherished recipe in your summer cooking repertoire, revisited again and again!

Expert Cook’s Notes for the Perfect Provençal Vegetable Tian

Achieving a perfect tian is easy with a few simple considerations:

• Panko vs. Regular Breadcrumbs: I highly recommend using Italian seasoned panko crumbs for their superior crunch and built-in flavor. However, if you only have regular breadcrumbs on hand, they will work. You might want to mix them with a pinch of Italian seasoning or dried herbs for added zest.
• Serving Temperature: This dish is absolutely delicious served warm, allowing the flavors to truly sing. However, it’s also wonderfully enjoyable at room temperature, making it an excellent option for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep.
• Uniform Slicing: For best results in terms of cooking consistency and visual appeal, strive to slice your eggplant, squash, and tomatoes to a consistent 1/4-inch thickness. A mandoline slicer can be very helpful here, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work just as well.
• Don’t Skimp on Olive Oil: Olive oil is key to the Provençal flavor profile and helps the vegetables cook beautifully. Use a good quality oil for the best taste.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the layered vegetables in the baking dish a few hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come closer to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. Add the panko and Parmesan topping just before the final uncovered baking stage.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Pairings

This versatile Provençal Vegetable Tian can be enjoyed in many ways:

• As a Main Course: Served with a crusty baguette and a simple green salad, it makes a satisfying and complete vegetarian meal. You could also crumble some goat cheese or feta over the top during the last few minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor.
• As a Side Dish: It pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, baked fish (like cod or salmon), or roasted lamb.
• Brunch Option: A slice of tian is a delightful addition to a weekend brunch spread.
• Picnics & Potlucks: Since it tastes great at room temperature, it’s an excellent dish to bring to outdoor gatherings.

Explore More Delicious Summer Vegetable Recipes

If you’re looking for more ways to celebrate the vibrant flavors of summer, here are some other fantastic vegetable-centric recipes you’ll love:

• Easy Cucumber Salad
• Corn Maque Choux
• Easy Homemade Dill Pickles

Share Your Culinary Creations!

Before you dive into your first delicious bite, why not capture the moment? Snap a beautiful photo of your Provençal Vegetable Tian and share it with the world! I would absolutely love to see your creations. Be sure to follow @thebeachhousekitchen on Instagram and tag your photos using #thebeachhousekitchen!

Please let me know if you give this wonderful recipe a try. And if you have any questions or need further tips, feel free to drop a comment below. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer!