Roasted eggplants with garlic herb sauce are a simple yet flavorful dish that makes a wonderful addition to any meal. The eggplants are salted to remove excess moisture, then brushed with a rich mixture of garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs before being roasted to perfection. The final touch of melted butter and fresh dill adds a luxurious finish, making this dish perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether served as a side dish with grilled meats, a part of a mezze platter, or enjoyed on its own with crusty bread, this roasted eggplant recipe will soon become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants
- Salt (to taste)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Italian herbs (to taste)
- 20g butter (melted)
- Fresh dill (for garnish)
Directions
-
Prepare the Eggplants:
- Make cuts in the eggplants as shown in the video (you can cut them into halves, quarters, or slits depending on your preferred presentation).
- Salt the eggplants well and let them sit for 15 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture, improving the texture when roasted.
-
Prepare the Garlic Herb Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, squeezed garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs. Stir everything well to combine into a smooth sauce.
-
Remove Excess Moisture:
- After 15 minutes, use a paper towel to remove excess moisture from the eggplants. This will ensure the eggplants roast to a nice texture without being soggy.
-
Brush with Sauce:
- Place the eggplants on a parchment paper-lined baking dish.
- Brush the eggplants with the prepared garlic herb sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
-
Bake the Eggplants:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the eggplants in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until they are tender and the edges are nicely browned.
-
Finish and Serve:
- Melt 20g of butter and drizzle it over the baked eggplants, allowing it to soak into the flesh for added richness.
- Garnish the eggplants with fresh dill for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve the eggplants hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions This roasted eggplant dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, grilled meats, or as part of a mezze platter. It’s also great as a standalone dish with some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic herb sauce. For a complete Mediterranean meal, consider pairing it with hummus, tzatziki, or tabbouleh.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure Proper Salting: Make sure to salt the eggplants well and allow them to sit for the recommended time. This helps remove excess moisture, ensuring the eggplants roast beautifully and don’t become soggy.
- Customize the Garlic and Herbs: Adjust the amount of garlic and Italian herbs to suit your taste. You can add extra garlic for a more intense flavor or include fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a different twist.
- Check for Doneness: The eggplants are ready when they are tender and slightly browned at the edges. Use a fork or knife to check for softness in the center.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Fiber: Eggplants are a great source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Eggplants contain antioxidants like nasunin and anthocyanins, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This dish provides essential vitamins such as vitamin C, B6, and folate, along with minerals like potassium, manganese, and magnesium.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes, this dish is fully vegetarian and can be enjoyed as part of a plant-based diet.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free: No, this dish contains butter, making it not dairy-free, but you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Storage Leftover roasted eggplants can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The dish can also be served cold as a part of a salad or mezze platter.
Advertisement
Conclusion This roasted eggplant recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. The garlic herb sauce infuses the eggplants with flavor, while the melted butter and fresh dill add richness and brightness to the dish. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to be a hit at any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different herb for the sauce? Yes, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for a different flavor profile.
-
Can I prepare the eggplants ahead of time? Yes, you can salt and prep the eggplants a few hours ahead, then proceed with the roasting when ready to cook.
-
What can I serve this dish with? This roasted eggplant pairs well with grilled meats, salads, and dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki.
-
Can I make this dish vegan? Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil to make the dish vegan.
-
Can I roast the eggplants on a grill instead of in the oven? Yes, you can grill the eggplants for a smoky flavor. Brush them with the garlic herb sauce and grill until tender and slightly charred.
-
How can I make the eggplants spicier? You can add chili flakes, hot sauce, or fresh chopped chili to the garlic herb sauce for a spicy kick.
-
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe? Yes, you can use other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes to make a mixed vegetable dish.
-
How do I know when the eggplants are done? The eggplants are done when they are fork-tender and slightly golden at the edges.
-
Can I store this dish for longer than 3 days? While it’s best to consume it within 3 days, you can store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
-
Is this dish suitable for a Mediterranean diet? Yes, this roasted eggplant dish fits perfectly within a Mediterranean diet, being rich in vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and packed with flavor.