Name: Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486867H32M42S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish); 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for added flavor); Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

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Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is a savory, tender dish that showcases the earthy flavor of eggplant combined with aromatic Mediterranean herbs and spices. Roasted to perfection, it’s the perfect side dish or appetizer, offering a satisfying combination of rich flavors from garlic, olive oil, and herbs, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With its vibrant and comforting taste, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of eggplant, balanced with the robust flavors of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s easy to make, healthy, and perfect as a side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, on top of a salad, or as part of a mezze platter, this recipe is sure to impress with its savory and satisfying flavors. The eggplant becomes wonderfully soft and tender when roasted, absorbing all the flavors while maintaining its shape and texture.

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
3 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for added flavor)
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds and arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Brush the eggplant slices generously with the olive oil mixture, making sure to coat each side.
Roast the eggplant in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender.
Optional: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar just before serving for a touch of sweetness and tang.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Roasted Eggplant: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture for some heat.
Cheesy Version: After roasting, sprinkle the eggplant with grated Parmesan or feta cheese and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Stuffed Eggplant: For a heartier dish, scoop out the flesh from the eggplant slices after roasting and fill with a mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and herbs, then bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Balsamic Glaze: Instead of balsamic vinegar, drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted eggplant for a thicker, sweeter finish.
Herb Variations: Swap the thyme and oregano for rosemary, basil, or mint for a unique twist.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave for quicker reheating.

Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant

FAQs

Can I make this Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the eggplant ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for the best taste and texture.

How can I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy when roasting?

To avoid soggy eggplant, ensure that you slice the eggplant into even pieces and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Using parchment paper or a non-stick baking sheet can help keep the eggplant from sticking.

Can I grill the eggplant instead of roasting?

Yes! You can grill the eggplant instead of roasting it. Brush the eggplant with the olive oil mixture and grill on medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.

Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes to the baking sheet and roast them alongside the eggplant for a colorful veggie platter.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant recipe is naturally vegan. Just make sure not to add any cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese option if desired.

Can I use other spices in this recipe?

Feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin, coriander, or sumac for a unique flavor. The spices in this recipe are customizable depending on your taste preferences.

How do I know when the eggplant is done roasting?

The eggplant is done when it becomes soft and golden brown around the edges. You can easily check by piercing a fork into the slices—the fork should slide in smoothly.

Can I freeze roasted eggplant?

While roasted eggplant can be frozen, its texture might change once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, let the eggplant slices cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant?

This roasted eggplant pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including hummus, tzatziki, pita bread, grilled meats, or as part of a mezze platter. It can also be served over couscous, quinoa, or rice for a light, complete meal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. The combination of roasted eggplant, olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs creates a rich, savory flavor that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or main, it’s a versatile and delicious option for any meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping or enjoying fresh!