Lathera (translates to THE OILY DISH)
Lathera is a vibrant, rustic Mediterranean side dish that celebrates the simplicity of roasted vegetables. Thinly sliced zucchini and potatoes are layered with sweet onions and juicy tomatoes, then drenched in plenty of olive oil. As they bake, the potatoes become tender and crispy at the edges, while the zucchini softens and absorbs the rich, garlicky juices. The whole cloves of garlic mellow into sweet, spreadable pillows. Finishing with fresh oregano and parsley adds a burst of aromatic freshness that cuts through the richness. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a hearty accompaniment to grilled meats. It’s comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
Description
Lathera is a vibrant, rustic Mediterranean side dish that celebrates the simplicity of roasted vegetables. Thinly sliced zucchini and potatoes are layered with sweet onions and juicy tomatoes, then drenched in plenty of olive oil. As they bake, the potatoes become tender and crispy at the edges, while the zucchini softens and absorbs the rich, garlicky juices. The whole cloves of garlic mellow into sweet, spreadable pillows. Finishing with fresh oregano and parsley adds a burst of aromatic freshness that cuts through the richness. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a hearty accompaniment to grilled meats. It’s comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients
- 4-5 medium size zuccini, cut in 1/4 in. disks
- 3-4 medium potatoes, cut in 1/4 in. disks
- 1-2 medium onions, sliced in thick rings
- 1-2 medium tomatoes, sliced in 1/4 in. disks
- 6-7 cloves garlic, peeled and whole
- 1/2 cup olive oil (or any other oil)
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley salt and pepper
- 2 tblspoons oregano (save for the end!)
Directions
- 1 Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2
Arrange the onion rings in a single layer at the bottom of a large baking tray or roasting pan.- 3
Layer the sliced potatoes and zucchini over the onions in a loose, even arrangement.- 4
Place the whole garlic cloves scattered throughout the vegetable layers.- 5
Top with the sliced tomatoes to allow their juices to drain down onto the vegetables as they cook.- 6
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the entire dish and season generously with salt and pepper.- 7
Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender and the onions are crispy.- 8
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh oregano and chopped parsley immediately before serving.- 9
Allow to cool slightly before eating.NoteDo not add the oregano until the end of cooking, as burnt oregano loses its flavor and develops a bitter taste.
For extra crispiness, ensure the vegetables are not overcrowded in the pan; use two trays if necessary.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
lathera, roasted vegetables, zucchini, potatoes, garlic, olive oil, mediterranean, side dish, vegan, gluten free, oregano, parsley, onions, tomatoes, crispy, easy, summer, healthy, roasted garlic, vegetarian - 2