Provençal Tian is a vibrant and aromatic dish from the Provence region of France. Made with layers of thinly sliced vegetables roasted with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, this rustic side dish is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s a simple yet elegant way to highlight fresh, seasonal produce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic French Cuisine – A traditional dish from Provence that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Made with fresh vegetables, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, it’s a wholesome side dish.
- Simple Yet Elegant – The beautifully arranged vegetables make this dish visually appealing and perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile Pairing – Pairs well with grilled meats, roasted fish, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free – A great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 zucchini (green and yellow)
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 eggplant
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 sprig of rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the vegetables: Cut the zucchini, tomatoes, eggplant, and onion into thin, even rounds for uniform cooking.
- Layer in a dish: Arrange the vegetable slices in an ovenproof baking dish, alternating colors to create a visually appealing pattern.
- Season and add herbs: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Tuck in a sprig of rosemary for extra fragrance.
- Bake covered: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften.
- Caramelize the top: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until the edges are slightly golden and caramelized.
- Serve warm: Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fresh crusty bread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheesy Tian: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese on top before the final 15 minutes of baking.
- Extra Herbs: Add fresh basil, oregano, or herbes de Provence for more aromatic depth.
- Spicy Version: Drizzle with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving for a sweet-tangy contrast.
- Mushroom Addition: Layer in sliced mushrooms for an earthy twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the vegetables can become mushy when thawed.
FAQs
What is a tian?
A tian refers to both a traditional Provençal vegetable dish and the shallow baking dish in which it is prepared.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Do I need to peel the vegetables?
No, peeling is not necessary. Keeping the skins on enhances texture, flavor, and nutrition.
Can I add potatoes?
Yes! Thinly sliced potatoes can be layered in for a heartier version.
How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming bitter?
If your eggplant is large or slightly bitter, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes before rinsing and patting dry.
Can I cook this dish faster?
For a quicker version, sauté the vegetables in a pan first, then bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
What type of baking dish should I use?
A ceramic or glass baking dish is ideal, as it helps the vegetables cook evenly and retain moisture.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes! Substitute 1 teaspoon of dried thyme with 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves.
Should I serve this dish hot or cold?
Provençal Tian is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature as part of a summer meal.
What dishes pair well with tian?
It pairs well with grilled fish, roasted chicken, lamb, or a simple baguette and cheese platter.
Conclusion
Provençal Tian is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and rich olive oil. This Mediterranean favorite is perfect as a light, healthy side for any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this colorful dish is sure to impress!
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Provençal Tian (Tian Provençal)
- Total Time: 1h 10 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic dish from Provence, this colorful and aromatic vegetable bake features zucchini, tomatoes, eggplant, and onion, roasted with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. With its rustic appeal and deep flavors, this dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 2 zucchini (green and yellow)
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 eggplant
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 sprig of rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the zucchini, tomatoes, eggplant, and onion into thin, even rounds.
- Arrange the vegetables in a baking dish, alternating colors to create an attractive pattern.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Add fresh rosemary sprigs for extra fragrance.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for another 15 minutes until slightly caramelized on top.
- Serve warm as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or goat cheese before the final 15 minutes of baking.
- Thin, even slices help the vegetables cook uniformly.
- A mandoline slicer makes slicing quick and consistent.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 min
- Category: Side Dish, Vegetarian
- Method: Baking, Roasting
- Cuisine: French, Provençal
