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These delicious eggplant recipes will change how you prepare your salads, sandwiches, sauces, casseroles, and pasta dishes, with a touch of purple and nourishment. Indulge in these veggie-filled meals that are as delicious as they are nutritious.
If there’s one vegetable that deserves a culinary spotlight, it’s the incredible eggplant. These purple gems are the ultimate game-changers in the world of healthy cooking. A true kitchen chameleon, they effortlessly transform simple everyday dishes into gastronomic masterpieces.
Eggplants come in different colors, each with special health perks. From bold purple to soft white, they’re full of good stuff like antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins that support heart health, digestion, and radiant skin.
In the Philippines, eggplants are super popular, and you’ll find them in many everyday meals. One of my breakfast go-tos is tortang talong (eggplant omelet). I usually have it with red rice for a wholesome and yummy way to kickstart my day.
And the best dinner side dish? There’s nothing quite like ensaladang along (eggplant salad) to enjoy with our main course, especially when there’s some salted egg in the mix. It’s a forever favorite for me and my parents.
The thing is, while I really enjoy my eggplants, I’ve been sticking to the same old recipes. I’m craving a little excitement in the kitchen and feeling the pull towards some food adventures.
How about we mix things up and give some daring eggplant recipes a shot? Are you up for the challenge? Let’s do this!
Vegan Stuffed Eggplant
Eggplants are hands down my favorite veggies! And I’m thrilled to discover another delicious dish I can make at home! This vegan stuffed eggplant is bursting with bright flavors and needs just a handful of simple ingredients like tomato sauce, black pepper, olive oil, and vegan parmesan.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffed Eggplant
Air Fryer Eggplant Chips
These healthy eggplant recipes can help you enjoy your classic favorites on a whole new level. I’ve always loved breaded eggplants but never used the air fryer for them.
For this air fryer eggplant dish and its sauce, you’ll only need fresh tomatoes, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, and other essentials.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant Chips
Eggplant Lasagna
These eggplant recipes aren’t just delicious, they’re also easy on the wallet. Craving cheesy pasta dishes but aiming to dine in?
This pasta dinner has delectable layers of eggplant and fresh mozzarella cheese. You won’t be able to resist its meaty sauce – a mix of ground beef, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Lasagna
Baba Ghanoush
If you’ve never explored Middle Eastern cuisine, these eggplant recipes are an excellent starting point. Give Baba ghanoush a try.
It’s a popular Middle Eastern dish made with roasted eggplants and various seasonings, loved for its smoky flavor. Use it as a dip with pita bread or a spread for sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Baba Ghanoush
Zaalouk (Moroccan Eggplant Dip)
Explore a world of flavors with these list of eggplant recipes. From Middle Eastern cuisine, dive into Mediterranean food with this Zaalouk recipe.
This savory side dish is great as a dip, spread, sauce, or filling. Add a Moroccan twist to your weeknight dinners with Zaalouk’s vibrant and fresh flavor.
Get the Recipe: Zaalouk (Moroccan Eggplant Dip)
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Simple Eggplant Bruschetta
Searching for a delicious side dish for your upcoming family get-together? Take your pick from these popular eggplant recipes.
Try the eggplant bruschetta – it’s all about roasted eggplant cubes with tomatoes, feta cheese, basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings. For an extra flavor kick, sprinkle on plenty of cheese.
Get the Recipe: Simple Eggplant Bruschetta
Honey Eggplant
Tired of cheesy eggplant recipes?! How about mixing eggplant slices with honey, plain yogurt, and a dash of spices? This beautiful eggplant dish is ready in just 20 minutes and is best served warm or at room temperature. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite ingredients beyond what’s in the recipe card.
Get the Recipe: Honey Eggplant
Eggplant Mesquite Brownies
Experience the benefits of eggplant in a sweet, guilt-free way. This vegan recipe blends rich dark chocolate flavors with eggplant, mesquite, and flax seeds. It’s one of the best baked eggplant recipes, boasting a decadent chocolate frosting made with plant-based chocolate chips, raw cashew butter, and cocoa powder.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Mesquite Brownies
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Armenian Eggplant & Carrot Salad
I’m always up for a satisfying salad! And I’m even more intrigued by recipes that let me try international flavors.
This Armenian-style salad with tender eggplant cubes and carrots seems perfect for regular weeknights or a potluck party. I’m thinking of adding more fresh vegetables and herbs, like some fresh basil leaves, to give it my own twist.
Get the Recipe: Armenian Eggplant & Carrot Salad
BBQ Grilled Eggplant Steaks
If you’re new to cooking, starting with simple vegan eggplant recipes can be a great way to build confidence.
These grilled eggplant slices, with BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion and smoked paprika offer classic flavors you’ll love having every day. Serve it with your choice of protein and brown rice for a hearty, tasty meal.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Grilled Eggplant Steaks
Sesame Hoisin Eggplant Stir Fry
From appetizers to main courses, eggplant recipes can seamlessly fit any part of your meal. This sesame hoisin eggplant stir fry is a classic eggplant dish.
It’s made with basic ingredients like bell peppers, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and peanut oil. While Japanese eggplants work best for this recipe, any variety you have will do.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Hoisin Eggplant Stir Fry
Sicilian Eggplant Meatballs
Want to explore a unique silent dish? Here’s a meatless choice even meat lovers would enjoy. Made with roasted eggplants, tomato sauce, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, these meatballs are an excellent match for bright summer pastas.
I love traditional beef meatballs, so I’m curious about this eggplant dish’s flavor – though I’m sure they are delicious, too!
Get the Recipe: Sicilian Eggplant Meatballs
Grilled Eggplant Sandwich
Sandwiches are my quick go-to when I’m busy or need a hearty meal on the go. But eggplant sandwiches? That’s a new one for me. This tasty sandwich packs in fresh vegetables and homemade tahini sauce. If you prefer, you can swap this sauce with hummus for a lower-fat option.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant Sandwich
Aubergine and Cauliflower Curry
Eggplant recipes work wonders for fast weekday dinners or fancy parties. This dish brings together roasted eggplants, cauliflower, creamy coconut, and a touch of spices.
It’s ready in just 35 minutes, so it’s perfect for unexpected dinner gatherings or a delightful solo meal at home. Just serve it with bread or rice, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Aubergine and Cauliflower Curry
Perfect Sautéed Eggplant
My dad’s a pro at sautéed eggplant dishes! This pan-fried eggplant is another tasty version I know he’ll be eager to try. You should give it a shot, too!
It’s a perfect make-ahead meal, good to keep in the fridge for up to five days. Of course, enjoying this sautéed eggplant recipe right after cooking is an even better option.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Sautéed Eggplant
Panda Express Eggplant Tofu
Eggplant recipes offer countless ways to try different seasonings and sauces. This eggplant tofu recipe isn’t just about enjoying that classic Panda Express taste at home, but also crafting a deliciously spicy-sweet sauce.
The magic happens with sweet chili sauce, veggie broth, Hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Tofu and eggplant make a satisfying combo!
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Eggplant Tofu
Sambal Terong Balado (Indonesian Sambal Eggplant)
When we ponder Asian cuisine, many think of Japanese or Chinese food. But how about a taste of Southeast Asian flavors this time?
Try this Indonesian sambal eggplant recipe. It’s simple with just seven ingredients, like coconut sugar, garlic, and red chilies, yet bursting with flavor! No need for fancy restaurants or traveling halfway around the world.
Get the Recipe: Sambal Terong Balado (Indonesian Sambal Eggplant)
Easy Eggplant Pizza
Cheesy eggplant recipes are the best! And it’s not just about pasta – you can actually include eggplant or other veggies in pizza. This recipe is wonderfully simple, needing only a handful of ingredients, including pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, pepperoni, and olive oil.
Get the Recipe: Easy Eggplant Pizza
Cheesy Eggplant Casserole
There are thousands of cheesy eggplant recipes out there that you can try, and this is one of the easiest ones you can cook today.
This casserole dish is loaded with eggplants, tasty pasta sauce, cheeses, and tomato slices! It’s a satisfying, kid-friendly meal, best served with green salad and Italian bread.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole
Roasted Eggplant Pasta
Looking for a straightforward eggplant pasta that isn’t overly creamy or cheesy? This simple roasted eggplant pasta is a must-try.
You can use any pasta on hand, fresh veggies, and seasonings. For the tastiest results, opt for young, thin-skinned eggplants, as they’re more tender and cook faster.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Eggplant Pasta
Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
Wow your friends with tasty eggplant recipes at your next gathering. This dish showcases pan-fried eggplant bites in a delicious garlic sauce, topped with sesame seeds and spring onions.
While Chinese eggplants are used in the recipe, don’t worry too much if you don’t have that type – any variety will work just fine.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
Miso-Glazed Aubergine
Here’s another delicious Asian-inspired eggplant recipe that deserves a spot in your meal plan. It’s so simple to make and bursting with umami flavors.
Dishes that go well with rice are always my top choices, so I’m definitely keeping this recipe for upcoming family gatherings. Yay, no need to order from the Japanese restaurant!
Get the Recipe: Miso-Glazed Aubergine
Spicy Aubergine Chutney
A chutney is a flavorful sauce from Indian cuisine. It adds extra flavor to dishes like curries, rice, bread, and grilled meats.
Give this easy recipe a shot to bring Indian cuisine into your daily meals! Just gather some baby eggplants, apple cider vinegar, chili flakes, and other easy-to-find ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Aubergine Chutney
Turkish Grilled Eggplant Spread
The nutritional benefits of eggplant recipes make them an essential for health-conscious eaters. If you’re aiming to be healthy but want a delicious twist on everyday meals, whip up this eggplant spread!
Use it on your breakfast sandwich for a quick workday start or as a dip for tortilla chips while enjoying Netflix at the end of the day.
Get the Recipe: Turkish Grilled Eggplant Spread
Vegan Lebanese Eggplant Moussaka
It’s incredible how these eggplant recipes acquaint us with several dishes from all over. Now, let’s journey to Lebanon with this vegan Lebanese eggplant Moussaka!
I’ve never had Lebanese food, and no local restaurants offer it. Looking at the ingredients in this recipe, it seems very achievable at home. It’s a good candidate for a future family favorite!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lebanese Eggplant Moussaka
Eggplant Dip with Goat Cheese
This five-ingredient dip transforms how you do snacks and appetizers! Eggplants and goat cheese are the stars of this recipe.
Beyond pita bread, crackers, and tortilla chips, it’s great with broccoli florets and carrot sticks. Indeed, the healthiest and most delightful meals begin with uncomplicated recipes.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Dip with Goat Cheese
Instant Pot Aloo Baingan (Potato Eggplant Curry)
No need to spend hours in the kitchen or at a pricey restaurant to savor Indian cuisine! This curry dish combines potatoes and eggplants with lime juice, cumin seeds, and aromatic spices.
Thanks to the Instant Pot, whipping up this meal is easier than ever. I think it’s about time I make this culinary investment.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Aloo Baingan (Potato Eggplant Curry)
FAQ About Eggplant Recipes
Why do you soak eggplant in water before cooking?
Soaking eggplant in water before cooking prevents it from absorbing excess oil. It also enhances its texture while reducing bitterness.
What’s the best way to eat eggplant?
There are countless ways to enjoy eggplant, with baking and grilling among the most popular. Get ready to grill eggplant steaks or bake stuffed eggplants today for a mouthwatering meal.
Do you wipe the salt off eggplant before cooking?
Yes, after allowing the eggplant to sit with salt, it’s a good practice to wipe off the excess salt before cooking, to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
Should I peel eggplant before frying?
No, you don’t have to peel the eggplant before frying. The skin adds texture and holds the slices together. However, if you prefer a softer texture or find the skin bitter, peel it off.
Should eggplant be refrigerated?
Store eggplants in a cool, dry spot at room temperature for short-term use. If refrigerated, it’s best to consume them within three days to maintain their freshness and quality.
Conclusion
This collection of eggplant recipes is a reminder that we can always add a healthy twist to our classic favorites.
I remember when my parents and I grabbed Jollibee meals and paired them at home with a basic grilled eggplant salad.
While our dinner wasn’t completely healthy, that touch of nutrition in the evening meal felt wonderful. Eggplants are so simple to cook and shine in numerous satisfying recipes.
Vegan Stuffed Eggplant
This easy vegan stuffed eggplant recipe features roasted eggplant halves filled with delicious Mediterranean stuffing. It's also dairy-free and gluten-free!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start by gathering and measuring all the ingredients for your vegan stuffed eggplant.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Take the eggplant halves and cut diagonal lines on their flesh from one direction. Then, repeat the diagonal cuts in the other direction, but be careful not to slice through the eggplant skin.
- Pour olive oil on the marked eggplants and cook in the oven for 15 minutes until golden brown.
- In a saucepan, cook the cherry tomatoes on medium heat until they soften and burst.
- Scoop out the roasted eggplant flesh with a spoon, careful not to damage the skin.
- Add the eggplant flesh to the tomatoes and cook for a few minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, pine nuts, and olives.
- Mix the pan to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
- Fill the eggplant skins with the mixture.
- Top with grated vegan parmesan, basil leaves, and more balsamic vinegar. Enjoy!
Notes
- Want to avoid bitter eggplants? Choose those that are firm with smooth and shiny skin.
- If you’re unsure about the bitter taste of your available eggplant variety, you can season the sliced eggplants with some salt and allow them to sweat for 20 to 30 minutes. Then, pat the eggplants dry before cooking.
- Get the perfectly roasted eggplant by cooking it until the flesh is golden brown and tender. If it's undercooked, it will be spongy.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 253Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 837mgCarbohydrates: 27gFiber: 7gSugar: 11gProtein: 6g
* Please note that all nutrition information are just estimates. Values will vary among brands, so we encourage you to calculate these on your own for the most accurate results.
Tired of meal planning stress? Save time, savor variety, and explore culinary creativity with our top 3 meal kit picks! 🍽️ Why not try Hello Fresh for diverse, exciting recipes, Blue Apron for gourmet cooking made easy, or Green Chef for eco-conscious dining?
Of course, besides eggplants, there’s a wide range of veggies and fruits to explore.
Like me, you might mess up a few of your initial meals, but that leaves more space for learning and growth! Here are some fantastic options for you to try today.
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