Baked Garlic and Herb Eggplant

These Baked Garlic and Herb Eggplant slices are a flavorful and healthy addition to any meal. With their tender texture and rich, aromatic seasoning, they are a delightful option for those seeking a tasty yet nutritious dish. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or a topping for sandwiches and salads, these eggplant slices are versatile and easy to prepare.

Preparation Time:

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggplants
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (to taste)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Chilli flakes mixed with aromatic herbs (such as oregano or thyme), to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Eggplants:

  1. Wash and Slice: Wash the eggplants and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. If preferred, you can also slice them lengthwise into strips.
  2. Draw Out Moisture: Lay the slices on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture and bitterness. Afterward, pat them dry with paper towels.

Season and Bake:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Season: Drizzle olive oil generously over the eggplant slices. Sprinkle minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and the chilli herb mixture evenly over the slices.
  4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the edges are slightly crispy.

Serve:

  1. Cool Slightly: Remove the eggplants from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
  2. Serve: Serve warm as a side dish or incorporate them into sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for bruschetta.

Serving Suggestions:

  • These garlic eggplants pair wonderfully with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.
  • Enjoy as a side dish, or incorporate into sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for bruschetta.

Cooking Tips:

  • For an even richer flavor, you can brush the eggplant slices with a mixture of olive oil, crushed garlic, and herbs before baking.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Eggplant: A great source of dietary fiber and comes with a host of vitamins and minerals. This dish aligns perfectly with a Mediterranean-style diet.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Vegan: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: Yes

Storage:

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • It’s a healthy, flavorful addition to any meal.
  • Easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients.
  • Versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.

Conclusion:

These Baked Garlic and Herb Eggplant slices are a delicious and healthy option for any meal. With their tender texture and aromatic flavor, they are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!

Bon appétit!