Description
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.
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)
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture.
For a cheesy version, sprinkle grated Parmesan or feta over the roasted eggplant and return to the oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
For a heartier dish, stuff roasted eggplant slices with quinoa or veggies and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
This recipe can be made vegan by omitting any cheese.
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use balsamic glaze for a sweeter finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
