Provençal Herb Garden Adventure: A Taste of Southern France

This Provençal herb garden adventure is a taste of Southern France on a plate. It's a symphony of fresh, vibrant flavors, with the delicate sweetness of zucchini, the earthy smokiness of eggplant, and the crisp crunch of bell pepper. Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tangy sweetness, while black olives lend a salty, briny depth. And of course, no Provençal dish would be complete without an abundance of fresh herbs. Parsley, basil, and thyme add a fragrant, aromatic touch that will transport you right to the sun-drenched fields of Provence.

The history of this dish is as rich and complex as the flavors themselves. It has its roots in the traditional cuisine of Provence, a region in southeastern France known for its sunny climate, rolling vineyards, and abundance of fresh produce. For centuries, the people of Provence have been using the region's bounty to create simple, yet flavorful dishes that showcase the natural goodness of their ingredients. This Provençal herb garden adventure is a modern interpretation of a classic Provençal dish. It's a celebration of the region's culinary heritage, and a testament to the power of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 large zucchini, sliced into matchsticks
• 1 large eggplant, sliced into matchsticks
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into matchsticks
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped black olives
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, eggplant, and bell pepper. Toss to combine.
2. Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss to coat.
4. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and herbs. Toss to combine.
5. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled, garnished with additional parsley and basil.
7. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of Provence with every bite!

Why It Works

• The combination of zucchini, eggplant, and bell pepper provides a variety of textures and flavors, from the tender sweetness of zucchini to the earthy smokiness of eggplant and the crisp crunch of bell pepper.
• Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tangy sweetness, while black olives lend a salty, briny depth.
• Parsley, basil, and thyme provide a fragrant, aromatic touch that brightens up the dish and adds a touch of Provençal authenticity.
• Marinating the vegetables for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a more flavorful dish.