Before getting started, it’s important to choose the right eggplant for roasting. Look for eggplants that are firm and shiny with smooth, unblemished skin. The size of the eggplant doesn’t matter, but larger ones may take longer to cook. You can use either globe eggplants or slender Japanese eggplants – both work well for roasting.
Here’s how to roast eggplant:
1. Preheat the oven to 425 F (220 C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Wash the eggplant and slice it into 1/2 inch (1 cm) rounds or lengthwise into halves or quarters.
3. Sprinkle the eggplant with salt and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out the bitter juices. Pat the eggplant dry with paper towels.
4. Arrange the eggplant slices on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between them. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
5. Roast the eggplant in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until soft and lightly browned. Flip the slices once halfway through .
Once you’ve roasted your eggplant, you can use it in many recipes. Here are three easy and delicious ways to enjoy roasted eggplant:
1. Roasted Eggplant Dip
This classic Middle Eastern dip is creamy, smoky, and full of flavor. Serve it with pita bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for a healthy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 large roasted eggplant
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– chopped fresh parsley and paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until smooth.
2. Drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the dip reaches your desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Serve the dip in a bowl, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of paprika.
2. Roasted Eggplant Salad
This refreshing and colorful salad is perfect for summer. The roasted eggplant adds a meaty texture and smoky flavor to the mix of juicy tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 large roasted eggplant
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, feta cheese, mint, parsley, and red onion.
2. Add the roasted eggplant slices and toss gently to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or light lunch.
3. Roasted Eggplant Pizza
This vegetarian pizza is a fun and easy twist on the classic Italian dish. The roasted eggplant makes a hearty and flavorful topping, while the melted mozzarella cheese and crispy crust make it irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 large roasted eggplant
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– salt and black pepper to taste
– dried oregano and red pepper flakes for seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 450 F (230 C) and a baking sheet or pizza stone.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s the desired size and thickness.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the roasted eggplant slices on top of the sauce, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over them.
5. Drizzle the pizza with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
6. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Roasting eggplant is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With these three recipes, you can use the roasted eggplant in different ways and create a range of and healthy dishes. Give them a try and enjoy the rich flavor and texture of roasted eggplant!