Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this visually stunning and delicious side dish is sure to impress your guests. Combining a variety of fresh vegetables with a savory topping, this tian offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes that celebrate the best of seasonal produce. Whether you’re hosting a festive meal or simply seeking a hearty accompaniment, this Vegetable Tian is a fantastic addition to any culinary repertoire.
Ingredients for Vibrant Vegetable Tian
TIAN
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil, plus more for greasing the cast iron pan
- 1 cup (120 grams) panko® bread crumbs
- 3 cups (450 grams) red onions, finely chopped
- 3 large cloves garlic, pressed
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) red pepper flakes, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) dry red wine
- 1 large (butternut squash)
- 2 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
- 1 large zucchini, scrubbed
- 2 large tomatoes, washed
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 tablespoon (8 milliliters) herbes de Provence
- Ground Himalayan sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (I always use mixed peppercorns)
TOPPING
- 1 cup (120 grams) Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup (60 grams) panko® bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) clarified butter
How to Make Vibrant Vegetable Tian
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a cast iron pan. Sprinkle 1 cup (120 grams) of panko bread crumbs evenly over the bottom of the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Onion Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add 3 cups (450 grams) of finely chopped red onions and sauté for 5 minutes. Add 3 pressed cloves of garlic and 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of red pepper flakes, sautéing for an additional minute. Pour in 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of dry red wine and cook for 1½ to 2 minutes, or until the wine is absorbed. Spread this onion mixture evenly over the prepared bread crumb layer in the cast iron pan and set aside.
- Slice the Vegetables: Using a mandolin, slice each vegetable to a uniform thickness of 1/4 inch (0.6 centimeters). Precook the butternut squash and russet potato slices in the microwave on high for 5 minutes until slightly tender. Allow them to cool.
- Assemble the Tian: Begin stacking the vegetables in the following order: a slice of russet potato, a slice of tomato, a slice of butternut squash, and a slice of zucchini. Repeat this layering process to create well-balanced, colorful stacks. Arrange these stacks evenly around the outer edge of the cast iron pan, working your way toward the center. Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of freshly squeezed lemon juice over the vegetables and sprinkle with 1/2 tablespoon (8 milliliters) of herbes de Provence, ground Himalayan sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Prepare the Topping: While the tian is baking, combine all the topping ingredients. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup (120 grams) of grated Gruyère cheese, 1/2 cup (60 grams) of panko bread crumbs, and 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of clarified butter until well combined. Set aside.
- Add the Topping and Bake: After the initial baking time, remove the tian from the oven and carefully remove the aluminum foil. Evenly sprinkle the prepared topping mixture over the vegetables. Return the tian to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the Vegetable Tian from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to set slightly. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Makes 8 servings.
Vibrant Vegetable Tian is a stunning and flavorful addition to any meal, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes that celebrate fresh vegetables. The savory onion mixture, layered with perfectly sliced vegetables and topped with a crispy, cheesy topping, creates a dish that is both comforting and impressive. Ideal for holidays, special occasions, or even a hearty family dinner, this vegetable tian is versatile and easy to prepare. Embrace the colorful presentation and rich flavors, and watch as this dish becomes a favorite on your dining table. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and visual appeal of this exceptional Vegetable Tian!
