Rustic Tomato and Onion Gratin

There's a special kind of magic in turning simple, humble ingredients into something truly spectacular. This Rustic Tomato and Onion Gratin is a perfect example of that alchemy. It transforms day-old bread, ripe summer tomatoes, and sweet onions into a dish that's both deeply comforting and surprisingly elegant.

Whether you need a light yet satisfying lunch, a unique side dish for dinner, or a clever way to reduce food waste, this recipe is a winner. The toasted bread soaks up the savory tomato juices while retaining a delightful crunch, creating a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors that will transport you to the Mediterranean countryside.

Ingredients

• 400g ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 150g whole-grain bread, cut into 2cm cubes
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 30ml olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat and Toast: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the bread cubes with half of the olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until crisp and golden. Set aside.
2. Caramelize Onions: While the bread toasts, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and beautifully caramelized.
3. Build the Sauce Base: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Cook the tomato mixture for 5-8 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and form a chunky, flavorful sauce.
5. Combine and Assemble: In a small baking dish (approx. 8x8 inches), combine the toasted bread cubes with the tomato and onion mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is well-coated.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Substitutions

• Add Cheese: For a richer gratin, sprinkle grated Parmesan, Gruyère, or Pecorino cheese over the top before baking. It creates a wonderfully savory, golden crust.
• Fresh Herbs: If you have them, swap the dried oregano for a handful of chopped fresh basil or thyme, stirred in with the tomatoes for a brighter flavor.
• Bread Variations: This recipe is fantastic with any sturdy, day-old bread. Try a rustic sourdough, a French baguette, or ciabatta for different textures.

Nutrition Information

Related Recipe

See the original recipe: "Rustic Tomato and Onion Gratin"

This gratin is proof that the most memorable meals often come from the simplest ingredients. It's a versatile, forgiving, and utterly delicious dish that we hope becomes a new favorite in your home.

Give this simple yet elegant recipe a try and let us know what you think. Enjoy!