This Roasted Garlic and Herb Eggplant is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness and richness of eggplant. With a bit of olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs, it becomes a savory and aromatic treat that can be served as a side dish or a light main. The fresh parsley and spices enhance the eggplant’s flavor, creating a perfect complement to any meal.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
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Total Time: 40-45 minutes
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Yield: Serves 4
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Cuisine: Mediterranean, Vegan, Healthy
Full List of Ingredients
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3 eggplants, cut in half lengthwise
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Fresh parsley (a handful, chopped)
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Salt, to taste
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3-4 cloves garlic, minced
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Olive oil (for drizzling)
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Ground black pepper, to taste
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Italian herbs (to taste)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Eggplants
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Start by cutting the eggplants in half lengthwise. Use a sharp knife to cut through the eggplant’s skin and flesh, creating a long, flat surface for roasting.
2. Season the Eggplants
Place the halved eggplants on a baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle olive oil generously over the top of each piece. Use a brush or your hands to spread the oil evenly over the flesh.
Sprinkle the eggplant halves with salt, ground black pepper, and Italian herbs to taste. Then, sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the cut sides of the eggplant. The garlic will roast and infuse the eggplant with flavor as it cooks.
3. Roast the Eggplants
Roast the eggplants in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and golden brown on the edges. You can check for doneness by poking a fork into the flesh; it should feel soft and give way easily.
4. Garnish and Serve
Once the eggplants are roasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
5. Serve
Serve the roasted eggplants as a side dish with grilled meats, pasta, or a fresh salad. They can also be enjoyed as a light vegetarian or vegan main dish, drizzled with extra olive oil or topped with a dollop of yogurt.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 150
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Fat: 12g
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Saturated Fat: 1g
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Cholesterol: 0mg
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Sodium: 250mg
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Carbohydrates: 15g
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Fiber: 7g
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Sugars: 7g
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Protein: 2g
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Eggplant, or aubergine, is a staple in Mediterranean cooking, where it is often roasted or grilled to enhance its natural flavor. This roasted garlic and herb version brings out the eggplant’s smoky sweetness and is a popular dish in many Middle Eastern and Italian cuisines. It’s a simple yet highly flavorful dish, often served as part of meze platters or as a side to grilled meats.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Simple Ingredients: This dish uses just a few basic ingredients but delivers great flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
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Versatile: Roasted eggplants can be served on their own, as a side dish, or even in sandwiches or wraps.
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Healthy: Eggplant is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to your diet.
Health Benefits
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Eggplant is high in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. It’s also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion.
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Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve cardiovascular health.
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Olive Oil provides heart-healthy fats and is a good source of vitamin E.
Serving Suggestions
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As a Side Dish: Serve this roasted eggplant alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or fish for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
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With Pasta: Pair it with your favorite pasta for a light yet flavorful meal.
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As a Vegan Main: Top with tahini or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a complete vegan meal.
Cooking Tips
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To ensure the eggplants roast evenly, avoid overcrowding the pan. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herby flavor, but feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or basil.
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Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning. Add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity.
Variations to Try
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated parmesan or feta cheese on top of the eggplants during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a cheesy touch.
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Make It Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to give the eggplants a spicy kick.
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Roast with Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes to the baking sheet for a roasted vegetable medley.
Conclusion
This Roasted Garlic and Herb Eggplant is a delicious and healthy dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether served as a side or as a main dish, it’s sure to impress anyone who enjoys Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The combination of roasted eggplant, garlic, and herbs creates a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the eggplants in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use any oil you prefer, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, though olive oil is recommended for the best flavor.
3. Can I add cheese to the roasted eggplant?
Yes, you can sprinkle cheese like mozzarella, feta, or parmesan on top of the eggplant in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but use about half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
5. Can I use a grill instead of an oven?
Yes, grilling the eggplants over medium heat for about 10 minutes on each side will give them a smoky flavor.
6. Can I freeze the roasted eggplants?
It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze the roasted eggplant for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to restore its texture.
7. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes to roast alongside the eggplants for a more substantial dish.
8. How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?
Make sure to pat the eggplant dry after slicing and drizzle with enough olive oil to prevent it from drying out during roasting.
9. Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, this roasted eggplant can be served cold or at room temperature, making it a great addition to salads or as part of a meze platter.
10. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan. You can add vegan cheese or tahini for added flavor.