Follow these steps for perfect results
extra-virgin olive oil
red onion
cut into 3/4-inch chunks
fennel bulb
trimmed, cored, cut into 3/4-inch chunks
celery
peeled if necessary, cut into 3/4-inch chunks
bell peppers
seeded, cut into 3/4-inch chunks
kosher salt
bay leaves
fresh
vegetable oil
eggplant
cut into 3/4-inch chunks
zucchini
cut into 3/4-inch chunks
cider vinegar
honey
sun-dried tomatoes
drained, cut into strips
capers
drained
dried oregano
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion, fennel, celery, and peppers to the skillet.
Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and add bay leaves.
Toss the vegetables to coat them in oil.
Cover the skillet and let the vegetables sweat over low heat for about 10 minutes, or until tender.
Heat vegetable oil in another skillet over medium-high heat.
Add eggplant to the hot oil and cook, turning to brown all sides, for about 6 to 7 minutes.
Drain the cooked eggplant on a paper-towel-lined baking sheet.
Add the remaining vegetable oil to the skillet and repeat the process with the zucchini, browning on all sides, for about 6 to 7 minutes.
Remove the browned zucchini and drain on a paper-towel-lined baking sheet.
Meanwhile, bring cider vinegar and honey to a boil in a small saucepan.
Cook until the mixture is syrupy and reduced by about half, which should take approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
Once the onion, fennel, celery, and peppers are tender, remove the lid and add the sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet.
Cook uncovered to evaporate excess liquid, about 2 to 3 minutes more.
Sprinkle in the capers and oregano.
Pat the eggplants and zucchini dry.
Season the eggplants and zucchini with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Add the eggplants and zucchini to the skillet with the other vegetables and toss to combine.
Drizzle in the reduced vinegar mixture.
Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt (or as needed) and toss for a minute or two, just until the vegetables are glazed.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Expert advice for the best results
For a smoky flavor, grill the eggplant and peppers before adding them to the stew.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
Everything you need to know before you start
20 minutes
Can be made 1-2 days in advance; flavors develop further.
Serve in a shallow bowl, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve as a side dish with grilled fish or chicken.
Serve as a main course with couscous or quinoa.
Serve with a dollop of ricotta cheese for added richness.
Complements the tangy and savory flavors.
Such as Pinot Noir
Discover the story behind this recipe
Common in Mediterranean diets, emphasizing fresh vegetables and olive oil.
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