Easy Ratatouille Recipe (with Pinto Beans)

When you’re craving a hearty and healthy meal on a busy weeknight, look no further than this easy ratatouille recipe with Canadian-grown pinto beans. Bursting with seasonal vegetables and protein-packed beans, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those late-summer veggies from your garden or local market. Let’s dive into this flavorful and satisfying dish!

What is Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a classic French vegetable stew that originates from the region of Provence. It’s a flavorful and rustic dish made by simmering a medley of seasonal vegetables, including tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, often flavored with garlic and aromatic herbs like basil and thyme.

The vegetables are typically cooked until tender but retain their distinct textures, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and colors. Ratatouille can be enjoyed on its own, served as a side dish, or paired with crusty bread, making it a versatile and beloved dish that celebrates the essence of French cuisine and the bounty of fresh produce.

Why I Chose Canadian-Grown Pinto Beans

Choosing Canadian-grown pinto beans for your ratatouille recipe is an excellent option for several reasons:

1. Quality Assurance: Canada has a reputation for strict agricultural standards and quality control. By selecting Canadian-grown white kidney beans, you can trust that you are using high-quality beans that meet rigorous quality and safety standards.
2. Supporting Local Farmers: Opting for Canadian-grown ingredients supports local farmers and Canada’s agricultural industry. It also directly contributes to the sustainability of local food production.
3. Reduced Carbon Footprint: Choosing local ingredients in general reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Imported ingredients often travel long distances, resulting in higher greenhouse gas emissions. Canadian-grown white kidney beans, when sourced locally, help reduce the environmental impact of your meal, aligning with sustainable and eco-conscious cooking practices.

To learn more about all the important health benefits of incorporating Canadian-grown pulses into your diet and learn more about the Alberta pulse industry, visit https://albertapulse.com/eating-pulses/.

Looking for more pulse recipes? Check out https://albertapulse.com/recipe/.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ratatouille Recipe

1. Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks. With straightforward instructions and minimal prep time, it’s a go-to option for busy weeknight dinners when you crave a healthy and satisfying meal without the hassle. Best of all, it can be made in advance and enjoyed warm or straight out of the refrigerator.
2. Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with a variety of seasonal vegetables, and pinto beans for added protein and minerals, plus a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, this ratatouille recipe offers a burst of flavors in every bite. It’s a wholesome, nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for those seeking both a delicious and health-conscious meal.
3. Versatility and Seasonality: Ratatouille is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round, utilizing whatever fresh vegetables are in season. This recipe celebrates the flavors of summer and can help you make the most of your garden or local market finds. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s a delightful addition to any meal, providing a taste of the Mediterranean in every mouthful.

How to Serve Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit different preferences and occasions. Here are five different ways to serve ratatouille:

1. As a Main Dish: Enjoy a generous portion of ratatouille as the star of your meal. Serve it over cooked quinoa, couscous, or polenta for a hearty vegetarian main course. Top with grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta for an extra burst of flavor. You can even fold it into omelets or frittatas
2. Side Dish with Protein: Pair ratatouille with your choice of protein for a balanced meal. It complements grilled chicken, seared fish, or pan-fried tofu beautifully.
3. On Toast: Transform ratatouille into a scrumptious toast topper. Spread a layer of ricotta or goat cheese on toasted baguette slices and spoon the ratatouille on top. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of fresh basil for an elegant appetizer or light lunch option.
4. Stuffed Peppers or Tomatoes: Use ratatouille as a flavorful stuffing for bell peppers or tomatoes. Hollow out the vegetables, fill them with ratatouille, and bake until they are tender and the flavors meld together. It’s a creative and colorful way to enjoy this dish.
5. Cold Salad: Chill ratatouille in the refrigerator and serve it as a cold salad. Toss it with some fresh arugula or mixed greens, and add a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette or Easy Lemon Basil dressing. This refreshing variation is perfect for hot summer days and picnics.

Ratatouille Recipe Ingredients

• 1 diced onion
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 zucchinis, diced
• 2 red or yellow bell peppers, diced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp of tomato paste
• 1 can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried tarragon
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Crusty bread for serving (optional)

How to Make Ratatouille

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large oven-safe frying pan over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil and allow it to heat up.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
3. Add Veggies: Stir in the diced zucchini and bell peppers. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Tomato Base: Add the can of diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Beans and Seasoning: Gently fold in the drained and rinsed pinto beans, dried parsley, dried basil, dried tarragon, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly.
6. Simmer: Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to marry and thicken up the sauce.
7. Oven Time: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together even more, and the veggies to become tender yet maintain their texture.
8. Finish with Freshness: Once out of the oven, garnish your ratatouille with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese (optional).
9. Serve and Enjoy: This easy ratatouille is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better when served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a delightful low-carb option for those looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor.

What to Serve with Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here’s what I like to serve with ratatouille:

1. Crusty Bread or Baguette: A warm and crusty loaf of bread is an excellent choice to soak up the flavorful juices of ratatouille. Simply slice it and serve on the side for a satisfying meal. Try this No Knead Baguette Recipe.
2. Polenta: Creamy and soft polenta is a wonderful base for ratatouille. Spoon the ratatouille over a bed of polenta for a hearty and comforting combination.
3. Couscous: Fluffy couscous is a light and fluffy side dish that pairs well with ratatouille. It’s quick to prepare and absorbs the rich flavors of the stew beautifully.
4. Pasta: Ratatouille can be served over cooked pasta for a filling and satisfying meal. Choose your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or spaghetti, and ladle the ratatouille on top. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
5. Grilled or Roasted Meat: Ratatouille can be served alongside grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, lamb, or pork. The vibrant vegetables and savory sauce complement the flavors of the meat, creating a well-balanced dish.
6. Rice: Steamed or pilaf-style rice is another excellent option to serve with ratatouille. The mildness of the rice pairs nicely with the robust flavors of the stew.

How To Make Ahead Freeze Ratatouille

Freezing ratatouille is a great way to preserve this delicious dish for future meals. You just need freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Here’s how to make ahead and freeze ratatouille:

How to Freeze Ratatouille

1. Cook Ratatouille: First, prepare your ratatouille and allow it to cool to room temperature before freezing.
2. Portion: Decide how you want to portion your ratatouille. You can freeze it in individual servings or in larger portions, depending on your needs. Smaller portions are convenient for quick reheating and smaller meals.
3. Choose Freezer-Safe Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags for packaging. It’s essential to use containers designed for freezing to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the dish.
4. Pack the Ratatouille: Carefully ladle the cooled ratatouille into the containers or freezer bags. Leave a small amount of space at the top to allow for expansion as the ratatouille freezes.
5. Label and Date: Label each container or bag with the contents and the date it was prepared. This step is crucial for keeping track of the freshness and ensuring you use the oldest batches first.
6. Remove Air: If using freezer bags, press out any excess air before sealing them. This helps prevent freezer burn.
7. Seal and Store: Seal the containers or bags tightly to prevent air and moisture from entering. Make sure they are properly closed and secure.
8. Freeze: Place the containers or bags in the freezer. Ideally, store them flat to save space, and ensure they are placed on a flat surface for initial freezing. Allow sufficient space between items for even freezing.
9. Long-Term Storage: Ratatouille can be stored in the freezer for up to 3-6 months, depending on the quality of your freezer and how well it is sealed.

How to Reheat Ratatouille

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen ratatouille, here’s how to reheat it:

1. Remove the frozen ratatouille from the freezer and transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
2. Once thawed, reheat it in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
3. Serve your reheated ratatouille as a side dish, over pasta, with crusty bread, or as desired.

By following these steps, you can make ahead and freeze ratatouille, ensuring that you always have a delicious and nutritious meal option ready to enjoy whenever you need it.

Other Bean Recipes You’ll Love

• Baked Cheesy Wine Bean and Tomato Skillet
• Black Bean Tortilla Soup
• The Ultimate Black Bean Chili Recipe (with Dark Chocolate)
• Easy Black Bean, Cucumber and Feta Salad
• Easy White Bean Soup
• Black Bean and Sweet Potato Burrito Bowl
• The Best Spicy Beef and Chorizo Chili

Final Thoughts: Easy Ratatouille Recipe

This easy ratatouille recipe is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, and it’s a wonderful addition to your repertoire of healthy recipes. Whether it’s January or August, this dish is always in season and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, why wait? Gather your veggies, whip up this delightful vegetable stew, and savor the love made right in your kitchen. Enjoy!