Delicious Baked Aubergine Vegetable and Salad Recipes For the Whole Family

Aubergines, also known as eggplants, are versatile vegetables that can be cooked in various ways. One of the most delicious ways to prepare aubergines is by baking them. Baked aubergines retain their firmness and become even more tender and flavorful. In this article, we will explore some mouth-watering baked aubergine vegetable and salad recipes that the whole family will enjoy.

1. Baked Aubergine Parmigiana:

Start by slicing the aubergines into half-inch thick rounds. Lightly salt both sides of the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step helps remove any bitter taste from the aubergines. Rinse the slices thoroughly and pat them dry. Place the slices on a baking tray and drizzle olive oil over each slice. Sprinkle some dried oregano and freshly ground black pepper. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 30 minutes until the aubergines become golden brown. Then, layer the baked aubergine slices with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, repeating the layers until you use all the ingredients. Finally, bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of fresh salad.

2. Baked Stuffed Aubergines:

Cut the aubergines in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1-centimeter border. Chop the flesh and set it aside. Heat some olive oil in a pan and sauté onions, garlic, and diced vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Add the chopped aubergine flesh to the mixture and cook until all the vegetables are soft and well combined. Stuff the aubergine shells with the vegetable mixture and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 40-45 minutes at 180°C until the aubergines are tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

3. Baked Aubergine Salad:

This salad is a refreshing and healthy way to enjoy baked aubergines. Slice the aubergines into thick rounds and season with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 25-30 minutes until tender. Let the slices cool, then chop them into smaller pieces. In a bowl, combine the baked aubergines with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs such as mint and parsley. Dress the salad with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and honey. Toss gently to combine all the flavors and serve as a side dish or a light meal.

Baked aubergines are a nutritious addition to any meal. They are low in calories, rich in fiber, and loaded with antioxidants. These recipes can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a cheesy Parmigiana or a lighter salad option, baked aubergines offer a delectable way to incorporate more vegetables into your family meals. Try out these recipes and watch how your family falls in love with the versatility and deliciousness of baked aubergines.