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Ratatouille with White Beans

A hearty, plant-based twist on the French classic. Ratatouille with white beans brings protein and fiber to this rustic, slow-simmered vegetable stew, making it a complete meal perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 medium Onion thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 medium Eggplant cubed
  • 1 medium Zucchini or summer squash sliced into half moons
  • 2 Bell peppers chopped, any color
  • 2 cups Fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste optional, for depth
  • 1.5 cups White beans (cannellini or great northern) cooked, drained and rinsed
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp Dried or fresh thyme
  • 0.5 tsp Oregano
  • 0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley or basil chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until soft, about 5–7 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes more.
  2. Add cubed eggplant and a pinch of salt. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until eggplant begins to soften and brown.
  3. Stir in zucchini and bell peppers. Cook for 5–6 minutes. Add tomato paste if using, and cook for another minute to enhance flavor.
  4. Add tomatoes and white beans to the pot. Stir to combine. Season with thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with bread or over grains.

Notes

• Use canned white beans for convenience or cook from dry for more texture.
• Add capers or olives for a briny twist.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days; flavors improve over time.
• Serve chilled as a summer stew or warm for cooler months.