This eggplant and pepper snack is a savory and flavorful dish that’s perfect for an appetizer or side dish. The tender eggplant pairs beautifully with the sweetness of bell pepper and the savory kick from soy sauce, garlic, and sesame. The result is a mouthwatering combination of tastes and textures that will surely delight your taste buds!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 900g eggplant (cut into cubes)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 sweet bell pepper (diced)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
For the dressing:
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tsp sesame seeds
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Directions:
- Prepare the Eggplant:
- Sprinkle the cubed eggplant with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to release any bitterness. Then rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
- Cook the Eggplant and Pepper:
- Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the eggplant cubes and sauté for 8-10 minutes, until the eggplant becomes tender and golden.
- Add the diced bell pepper and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the pepper softens.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, sesame seeds, black pepper, paprika, sugar, and minced garlic.
- Combine:
- Once the eggplant and pepper are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish. Pour the dressing over the top and mix well.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or side dish with grilled meats or seafood.
- Enjoy with a side of rice for a light meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or pita for a more filling option.
- Top with a dollop of yogurt or tahini for extra richness.
- Serve as a topping for salads or bowls for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- If the eggplant absorbs too much oil, you can reduce the cooking time slightly or use a non-stick pan to prevent it from soaking in too much oil.
- Feel free to add a bit more lemon juice or soy sauce to taste if you prefer a tangier or saltier dish.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, promoting heart health and digestion.
- Bell peppers are packed with vitamin C and other essential nutrients that boost immunity.
- Sesame seeds add a good source of healthy fats and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free (if using gluten-free soy sauce)
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The dish can also be enjoyed cold the next day as a salad!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- This snack is light but full of flavor, perfect for any time of the day.
- It’s a great way to enjoy eggplant in a fresh, healthy way.
- The sesame and soy sauce dressing adds a unique umami flavor that makes it irresistible.
Conclusion:
This eggplant and pepper snack is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s sure to become a regular on your table. It’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a party or enjoying it on your own, you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplant?
- Yes! Zucchini or squash would work well in place of eggplant.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- No, it is not spicy, but you can add some chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat.
- Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
- Yes, olive oil would be a great alternative for a richer flavor.
- Can I add other herbs to the dish?
- Yes, fresh basil or cilantro would also pair nicely with this recipe.
- Do I need to peel the eggplant?
- No, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- Can I grill the vegetables instead of frying them?
- Absolutely! Grilling the eggplant and peppers will give them a smoky flavor.
- Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
- Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.
- Can I make this dish without soy sauce?
- Yes, you can substitute tamari (for a gluten-free version) or coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
- Can I add protein to this dish?
- Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would complement this dish nicely.