Barefoot Contessa Vegetable Tian Recipe
This Barefoot Contessa Vegetable Tian Recipe layers zucchini, tomatoes, potatoes, garlic, and thyme into a cozy, oven-baked side dish.
Equipment
- A large baking dish (9x13 inch works perfectly)
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer for even slices
- Cutting board
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes thinly sliced
- 2 zucchinis thinly sliced
- 2 ripe tomatoes thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional but recommended
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 8–10 minutes until soft and slightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Spread this onion mixture evenly at the bottom of your baking dish. This creates a flavorful base.
Step 3: Slice the Vegetables
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the potatoes, zucchini, and tomatoes into thin, even rounds.
Step 4: Arrange the Layers
- Now comes the fun part. Arrange the vegetables upright in the dish, alternating between potato, zucchini, and tomato slices. Pack them tightly for that classic tian look.
Step 5: Season
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
- Remove the foil, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for another 30–35 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- Slice vegetables evenly for consistent cooking
- Don’t skip the onion base—it adds depth
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor
- Let it rest before serving so the layers set nicely