Ingredients

  • 6 Tbsp. best quality olive oil
  • 1 eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3/4 lb. zucchini, cut into cubes
  • 3/4 lb. coarsely chopped onions
  • 1/2 lb. sweet red peppers, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 Tbsp. crushed garlic
  • 2 sprigs fresh or 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • salt and fresh ground pepper
  • 1 1/2 lb. plum tomatoes, cut into cubes

Method

  • Heat 5 tablespoons oil in large heavy skillet and when hot, add eggplant.
  • Cook, stirring, about 3 minutes.
  • Remove with slotted spoon and drain in colander with bowl under.
  • Add zucchini to skillet with salt and pepper; cook about 3 minutes.
  • Add to eggplant.
  • Add remaining oil, plus whatever has accumulated in bowl, to pan with onions and peppers and cook until wilted.
  • Add eggplant, zucchini, salt and pepper and thyme.
  • Cook about 5 minutes.
  • Add tomatoes and stir.
  • Cover; simmer for 20 minutes. Uncover.
  • Add garlic and cook about 10 minutes to reduce liquid. Tastes best at room temperature.