Okra, Potato, and Tomato Torte with Fennel and Garlic

Cheery and festive, this savory and colorful cake-like arrangement brightens a buffet table. The okra slices, like fruits on an upside-down cake, retain their pretty shape baked this way. The dish can be prepared hours ahead and only deepens in flavor (no liquids or binders dilute its concentrated juices). But do not refrigerate, or the texture will turn gummy.