Ingredients

For the Roasted Vegetables:

• 1 Turkish coffee cup of oil (90 ml) (for roasting)
• 2 eggplants
• 2 large potatoes
• 6 pointed peppers
• 2 zucchinis
• 2 capia peppers
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• 1 clove garlic
• 100 ml (½ glass) hot water
• ½ teaspoon salt

Making it Step by Step

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Eggplants: Wash and cut the eggplants into cubes. To reduce bitterness, sprinkle with salt and let sit for 20 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
   • Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
   • Pointed Peppers: Wash, seed, and cut into strips.
   • Zucchinis: Wash and cut into half-moon slices.
   • Capia Peppers: Wash, seed, and cut into strips.
2. Roast the Vegetables:
   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine all the prepared vegetables. Drizzle with 90 ml of oil and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss well to coat.
   • Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and golden brown, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
   • While the vegetables are roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Finely chop the garlic and add to the saucepan. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Dice the tomatoes and add them to the pan along with 1 teaspoon of tomato paste.
   • Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to break down.
   • Add 100 ml of hot water and ½ teaspoon of salt. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Once the vegetables are roasted, remove them from the oven.
   • Transfer the roasted vegetables to a serving dish and pour the tomato sauce over the top.
   • Gently toss to combine, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Cooking Tips

• Vegetable Sizes: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even roasting.
• Salt for Eggplants: Salting eggplants before cooking helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
• Oil Usage: Feel free to adjust the amount of oil based on your preference. Using a high-quality olive oil can enhance the flavor.
• Tomato Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more hot water. If too thin, simmer longer to reduce.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover roasted vegetables and tomato sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: The roasted vegetables and tomato sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fiber: 5g

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to use other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Adjust roasting times as needed.
2. Is there a substitute for tomato paste?
   • If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use a bit of tomato sauce or a few extra diced tomatoes.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. The flavors often develop even more after sitting for a day.
4. Can I serve this dish cold?
   • Yes, this dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it great for a picnic or potluck.
5. What can I serve with this?
   • This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or as a side to grilled meats or fish. It’s also delicious with crusty bread.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Roasted Vegetable Medley with Tomato Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that celebrates the best of summer produce. The roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and depth, while the tomato sauce adds a tangy, rich layer. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making it a fantastic choice for various meals. Enjoy this wholesome and delicious dish as a main course or side, and savor the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine in every bite!