Chef KDJ

View Original

Zucchini and Eggplant Caponata

4 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups zucchini, small diced
2 cups eggplant, peeled and small diced
1 cup red onion, small diced
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1/2 cup red pepper, small diced
1/2 cup green pepper, small diced
3/4 cup celery, small diced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 cups tomatoes, peeled, seeded and small diced
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 tablespoon oregano, chopped fine
1/2 tablespoon basil, chopped fine
1 tablespoon Italian parsley, chopped fine
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, chopped fine
2 tablespoons capers, drained and rough chopped
1 cup smoked cheese (Swiss or Gouda), grated
1 package gourmet crackers (lavosh)

Heat half the oil in a large casserole or Dutch oven until medium hot.

Add zucchini and eggplant and sauté for 5 minutes or until tender. Using a slotted spoon, remove it and set aside.

Add remaining oil, and sauté onions until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Then add the garlic, red and green peppers, and celery. Cook over low heat until all vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add eggplant and vinegar and cook just until it's well blended. Remove pan from heat and add tomatoes, herbs and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Remove from pan and place in serving dish, garnish with remaining ingredients and serve with crackers. Serves 6.