Ratatouille

This free vegetable side is delicious with any meat and freezes beautifully!

Ingredients:

o 2-3 tsp olive oil

o 1 medium onion, chopped

o 5 garlic cloves, peeled but kept whole

o 1 large eggplant, cubed

o 1 red and or green bell pepper, cut into strips

o 4 zucchini, sliced

o 8 Roma tomatoes (alternatively you can use a can of tomatoes), cut into 4 pieces each

o ½ lb white mushrooms, sliced

o ½ tsp each basil and oregano (optional)

o salt and freshly ground pepper

Method:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring to coat with the oil. Add the eggplant, stir and cook for 1 minute. Add the bell peppers, stir and cook for another 3-5 minutes with the lid on, stirring about every minute.

Now add the zucchini, mushrooms and tomatoes, herbs, salt and pepper to taste. Cover with the lid and cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

This recipe is delicious served immediately, or prepare it in advance and reheat before serving. It freezes well too!

Makes 6 servings; count as a free vegetable.