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
- Chili flakes mixed with aromatic herbs (such as oregano or thyme), to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- 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.
- 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:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil generously over the eggplant slices. Sprinkle minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and the chili herb mixture evenly over the slices.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Serve:
- Cool Slightly: Remove the eggplants from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Serve: Serve warm as a side dish or incorporate them into sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for bruschetta.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair 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
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 90 per serving
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 1g
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!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other herbs besides basil?
- Yes, you can use herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Can I prepare the eggplant slices ahead of time?
- Yes, you can slice and salt the eggplant in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Can I use a different type of oil?
- Yes, you can use oils like avocado oil or sunflower oil if you prefer.
- How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming too oily?
- Be sure to pat the eggplant slices dry thoroughly after salting to remove excess moisture before applying oil.
- Can I grill the eggplant instead of baking it?
- Yes, grilling the eggplant slices will add a nice smoky flavor to the dish.
- Is it necessary to peel the eggplant?
- No, the skin of the eggplant is edible and adds texture to the dish.
- Can I add cheese to this recipe?
- Yes, sprinkling some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top before baking adds a delicious touch.
- Can I freeze the baked eggplant slices?
- It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can freeze them. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- What can I serve with these eggplant slices?
- They pair well with salads, pasta dishes, or as a topping for pizza and sandwiches.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.