Gratin Catalan Perfect PairingsAppetizersVegetarianZinfandel “Shopping at late summer or early fall farmers markets provides the ideal ingredients for this Kermit Lynch inspired recipe. This is a versatile recipe and it pairs perfectly with an equally versatile wine – Sin Zin. Sin Zin’s jammy berry and spice can stand up to the big flavors in this dish, while complementing both red or white meats. We often pair the wine and gratin with roast chicken, grilled pork tenderloin or lamb chops.” Pennie Haase, Director of National Marketing and Northeast Regional Sales Serves: 4 Ingredients: 1 small red onion, cut into 1” slices and quartered 1 small eggplant, peeled and cut into 1” slices and quartered 1 small red pepper, cut into 1” squares 2 small zucchinis, cut into 1” slices & halved 2 Roma tomatoes, halved and seeded AVV Olive Oil 2 cloves garlic, finely diced 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped – about 1/4 tsp 1 spring fresh rosemary, chopped – about 1/4 tsp 4 leaves basil, chiffonade – about 1 TBSP Kosher salt Black pepper, freshly ground Parmesan cheese, to grate over top Method of Preparation: Heat oven to 400°. Moisten bottom and sides of 8” round, deep casserole dish with a little olive oil. Layer red onion, top with about 1 tsp olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Layer eggplant, top with olive oil, sprinkle with 1/3 garlic, salt and pepper. Layer red pepper, top with olive oil, sprinkle with 1/3 garlic, salt and pepper. Sprinkle half of the herbs. Layer zucchini, top with olive oil, sprinkle with remaining 1/3 garlic, salt and pepper. Finish with Roma tomatoes, cut side up. Sprinkle with more oil, the remaining herbs, salt and pepper. Cover with foil and bake in oven 1 hour. Remove foil and continue baking for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until gratin is cooked through and juices have evaporated. Remove from oven, top with grated cheese and garnish with more fresh basil. Cover with foil and let rest for 15 minutes before serving. The gratin can be served hot, warm or at room temperature. The recipe easily doubles for larger crowds, just be sure to use a deep casserole dish. You can substitute whatever fresh herbs you have on hand.
