5 tasty eggplant recipes to try today
What's the story
Eggplants, popularly known as aubergines, are a versatile vegetable that can easily elevate the most mundane meals with their unique texture and flavor. Nutrient-rich and available in a wide variety, eggplants can be prepared in different ways depending on your taste. From grilling to baking, eggplants open a whole new world of possibilities for home cooks looking to experiment. Here are five eggplant dishes that can transform your daily cooking routine.
Flavorful grilling
Grilled eggplant with herbs
Grilled eggplant is a simple, yet delicious dish that showcases the natural flavors of the vegetable. Sliced into rounds or lengthwise strips, the eggplant is brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs like thyme or rosemary, and grilled until tender. This way the smoky taste of eggplant is enhanced, making it an excellent side or a base for other toppings like fresh tomatoes or cheese.
Classic Italian twist
Eggplant Parmesan delight
Eggplant Parmesan is a quintessential Italian dish that layers slices of breaded and baked eggplants with marinara sauce and cheese. The combination of crispy textures from the breading and creamy melted cheese makes for a comforting meal that's ideal for family dinners. This dish really highlights how eggplants can be used as a hearty main course without meat-based ingredients.
Creative filling
Stuffed eggplants with vegetables
Stuffed eggplants allow you to get creative in the kitchen. You can stuff them with any vegetable, grain, or legume you want. Halved length-wise, hollowed out eggplants can be used as vessels for a mixture of your choice (quinoa, bell peppers, onions, and spices). Once baked, they make for a deliciously nutritious meal.
Middle Eastern inspiration
Roasted eggplant dip (baba ganoush)
Baba ganoush is another popular Middle Eastern dip that is made from roasted eggplants blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The roasting process adds a smoky flavor to the dip while keeping its creamy texture intact. Baba ganoush makes an excellent appetizer when paired with pita bread or fresh vegetables to dip in it.
Quick stir-fry
Stir-fried eggplant medley
Stir-frying is another quick way to prepare eggplants while retaining their nutritional value. Cut into cubes or strips, you can stir-fry them along with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini in soy sauce-based sauces infused with ginger or garlic flavors. This way you can have vibrant colors on your plate, along with delightful tastes.