Ratatouille Terrine

Photo: flickr user [cipher]

Ingredients

2 mediums eggplants - (2 ½ lbs) cut lengthwise

into 1/2"-thick slices

cup olive oil

cup jarred tapenade (black olive paste)

3 mediums red bell peppers roasted, and

cut lengthwise into 3 sections

7 ounces soft mild goat cheese sliced thin

cup chopped fresh basil

cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

1 small garlic clove sliced

4 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

6 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation

Preheat broiler. Arrange eggplant slices in single layer on baking sheets; brush both sides of eggplant with oil and sprinkle with salt to taste. Broil eggplant in batches until golden and tender, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer eggplant to paper towels to drain.

Line an 8 1/2- by 4 1/2-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving a 3-inch overhang. Layer eggplant, olive paste, bell peppers and cheese in pan, beginning and ending with eggplant. Cover with plastic overhang and place 3- to 4-pound weight (such as another loaf pan filled with canned goods) on top. Chill 24 hours.

Make Fresh Herb Sauce: In food processor or blender, combine basil, parsley, garlic, vinegar, oil, 2 tablespoons water and salt and pepper to taste. Process until smooth.

To serve, remove weight, invert terrine onto cutting board, and discard plastic wrap. Cut terrine into 3/4-inch-thick slices. Pour a little basil sauce onto serving plates, tilting to spread sauce. Arrange terrine slices on sauce.

This recipe yields 6 servings.

Comments: The terrine may be made up to three days ahead. Cover it tightly in the pan and refrigerate. Unmold and bring to room temperature before serving. The sauce can be made up to three days ahead and refrigerated. Simply bring to room temperature before using.

TIP: To roast peppers, place under broiler, turning every 5 minutes until skins blister and char, 10 to 15 minutes. Transfer peppers to paper bag, close and let steam until cool enough to handle. Use a small sharp knife to peel off charred skin; discard seeds and ribs.