ZUCCHINI AND BASIL TIAN

"Tians are combinations of fresh herbs and vegetables slowly baked until the vegetables almost melt in your mouth. The name also is applied to the shallow ovenware casserole in which the dish is baked. Tians are best served at room temperature."

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 lbs zucchini (about 5 small), thinly sliced lengthwise
3 large Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced lengthwise
1 large onion, peeled, halved, and thinly sliced
5 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil
1 tsp salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil.

Layer half the vegetables and basil in the baking dish. Season with salt and pepper. Add the remaining vegetables and basil and season again with salt and pepper. Drizzle the remaining oil on top.

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour. Uncover, add the cheese if desired, and bake 10 minutes longer. Let stand at least 20 minutes before serving.

Servings: 6
Source: The Herb Companion magazine, June/July 2000