Mediterranean vegetables ratatouille made in the microwave

A recipe that is incredibly easy to make in the microwave and serves as a versatile base for other meat or fish preparations, as a side dish, or even as an appetizer.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into small pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into small pieces
• 1 zucchini, cut into small pieces
• 1 large eggplant, skin on, cut into small pieces
• 4 ripe red tomatoes, peeled, seedless, and chopped into small pieces*
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Ground black pepper

*Can be substituted with a cup (200 ml) of tomato sauce or canned whole tomatoes without skin (around 400 grams, aprox 1 lb)

In a large bowl with water and a heaping tablespoon of salt, add the eggplant pieces and let them soak for at least half an hour. After the time has passed, drain and set aside. This step not only hydrates the eggplant but also removes its bitterness.

In a microwave-safe container, add a generous tablespoon of olive oil and heat it for 1 minute at maximum power.

Then, add the onion, red pepper, green pepper, eggplant, and zucchini to the container. Stir the ingredients to coat them with the hot oil.

Cook in the microwave at maximum power for approximately 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Remove the container from the microwave and add the chopped tomatoes (or tomato sauce). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix the ingredients well and cover with a microwave-safe lid or use plastic wrap with a few perforations.

Place the container back in the microwave and cook at maximum power for another 5 minutes or until the tomatoes are cooked and have released their juices.

Carefully remove the container from the microwave as it will be hot. Mix the ingredients again and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Let the ratatouille rest for a few minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed as a side dish or as an appetizer with rice, for example. Similarly, it can be used as a main dish by adding boiled eggs or any other protein source.