Ratatouille seems exotic, but it’s easy to make, especially with this stackable-ingredient recipe. Don’t overlook this simple skillet version of ratatouille for chilly nights. Organic veggies will be worth the flavor boosts they give, so spring for those – they’ll make this dish much tastier. Kids who like pizza and the flavors of Italian herbs can enjoy this over their favorite pasta. Add a side of authentic hot Italian sausage to make it a hefty meal. Go grain free by serving with Paleo rolls like these made from quick mixes by Chebe. This reheats well and is even more yummy with time.
Super Easy Ratatouille
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Warming and delicious, savory goodness. Use a big skillet and stack ingredients in the order listed below. If you have it, a cast iron skillet is a great choice for even-heat simmer, and it will add iron for kids needing that boost - the acidity of the tomato pulls iron into the food. Peeling the eggplant is optional.
Warming and delicious, savory goodness. Use a big skillet and stack ingredients in the order listed below. If you have it, a cast iron skillet is a great choice for even-heat simmer, and it will add iron for kids needing that boost - the acidity of the tomato pulls iron into the food. Peeling the eggplant is optional.
If you prefer, peel the eggplant before slicing it. This is optional.
Heat 3 Tablespoons of the olive oil in a large skillet. Add garlic and soften over medium heat for one minute.
Layer in the vegetables in the order listed, leaving them to lie flat. Between each layer, sprinkle salt, oregano, and black pepper. Drizzle remaining olive oil (1 Tablespoon) on the top. Don't stir it. Leave it stacked just as you laid it all in
Cover the pan and cook over low heat for 30 minutes.
Uncover the pan and let 10 minutes longer to reduce liquid.
Gently turn and tumble the veggies, and serve with crusty bread of your choice, over pasta, or on its own for a lighter meal.
Lovingly known as “train wreck” in my house, this one skillet curry can have heat or be more mild, depending on your kids’ palates. I’ve written it here as moderately hot. The ground beef makes it more savory and nutritious, but it is also delicious if the meat is omitted, making for a nice vegetarian option.
Spicy Chick Pea Curry
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A warming and delicious red curry that is delicious over rice, gluten free rotini or penne, or hearty enough on its own. Adjust the heat by adding more spice, hotter curry powder, or hot pepper if that's your thing.
A warming and delicious red curry that is delicious over rice, gluten free rotini or penne, or hearty enough on its own. Adjust the heat by adding more spice, hotter curry powder, or hot pepper if that's your thing.
Heat olive oil to medium in a large skillet. Iron works well for this recipe and will boost iron in the food.
Add minced garlic and chopped onion, heating gently until clear. Do not brown or burn. Then add chopped pepper and continue to saute over medium heat.
Blend the dry spices in a small dish or bowl, except for salt and pepper. Add to skillet. Stir to coat onions, garlic, and peppers thoroughly. Simmer covered for 2 minutes, stir occasionally.
Next add the ground beef. Stir to blend well with the vegetables and herbs. Cook on medium heat til beef is browned.
Add canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, curry paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to blend well. Cover and let simmer x 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to low. Add drained chick peas and stir to warm and blend. Adjust spices as you like. Cover and simmer another five minutes.
Ladle over (gluten free) penne pasta, rotini, spirals, zucchini zoodles, or with GF focaccia bread (such as Chebe brand focaccia mix). Sprinkle on chopped cilantro for garnish if desired.
