### Caponata: A Sicilian Classic with a Modern Twist
Caponata is an iconic Sicilian dish that captures the lively essence of summer. Traditionally, it features a combination of sun-kissed vegetables such as eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, celery, and zucchini, all cooked together in an agrodolce (sweet-sour) sauce. This dish is renowned for its flexibility and rich flavor, establishing it as a favorite on antipasto platters or as a delightful side to numerous meals.
Yet, as seasons shift, our take on this timeless dish can evolve as well. Anna Jones, in her book *Easy Wins*, presents an invigorating version of caponata that is ideal for the chillier months. By swapping out eggplant for cauliflower and opting for roasting instead of frying, Jones crafts a recipe that balances comfort and creativity.
### Team Caponata
Caponata is favored by chefs for its flexibility and the deepening of its flavors over time. It’s a dish that can be savored warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent option for preparing in advance. With a jar of caponata stored in the refrigerator, you’re perpetually ready to host. Combine it with sparkling beverages, toasted nuts, a wedge of quality cheese, and some sourdough bread, and you’ve created a simple spread for spontaneous get-togethers.
### The Process
Making this variant of caponata is uncomplicated and entails just a handful of key steps:
1. **Roast the Vegetables**: Start by roasting cauliflower, celery, and red onion with a splash of olive oil until they are tender and caramelized.
2. **Combine Ingredients**: Blend the roasted vegetables with tomatoes, capers, olives, and dates (or raisins). Mix everything thoroughly to allow the flavors to meld.
3. **Bake**: Transfer the mixture to the oven and bake until it thickens and concentrates, letting the flavors fully develop.
4. **Serve**: Top with fresh herbs and serve warm or at room temperature.
### What to Serve with Caponata
The charm of caponata lies in its adaptability. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:
– **With Bread**: Enjoy simply with toasted bread or amp up the experience by creating bruschetta topped with burrata and caponata.
– **Tossed with Pasta**: A quick and rewarding dish can be prepared by mixing caponata into your favorite pasta. To elevate it, try using homemade pasta.
– **With Polenta**: A cozy option includes serving caponata over creamy polenta, garnished with grated cheese or a drizzle of crème fraîche and chives.
– **Savory Brunch**: Pair caponata with a frittata and roasted potatoes or artichokes for a filling brunch.
– **With Potatoes**: Caponata complements potatoes wonderfully, whether as a topping for baked potatoes or blended into mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
### More Anna Jones
Anna Jones is a UK chef whose books can be found internationally, including in the U.S. Her recipes provide inspiration for many, as she shares her culinary creations through various platforms.
### More Cauliflower Recipes
For cauliflower enthusiasts, there are myriad ways to incorporate this adaptable vegetable into your cooking. Whether roasted, mashed, or utilized as a substitute in classic recipes, cauliflower presents limitless culinary opportunities.
### Join the 101 Cookbooks Community
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