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These eggplant recipes prove eggplants are the star of the produce aisle. Featuring comforting dishes like eggplant parmesan and ratatouille, you’ll want to add eggplants to your main meals ASAP.

eggplant recipes

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Bored with your dinner routine? Make it egg-citing again with these flavorful eggplant meals! 

Once you’re done with this roundup, don’t be surprised if this often-overlooked veggie (or fruit, if we’re being technical) finds a spot in your regular meals.

Vegan Eggplant Parmesan

A plate of spaghetti with a side of breaded chicken topped with tomato sauce and cheese is a tempting lunch idea.
VEGAN EGGPLANT PARMESAN.PHOTO CREDIT: HAPPY FOOD HEALTHY LIFE.

There’s no better way to win over eggplant haters than with a delicious eggplant parmesan. This vegan version only takes an hour to make using simple ingredients!

Get The Recipe: Vegan Eggplant Parmesan

The Best Easy Vegan Ratatouille

Vegan Ratatouille by Happy Food Healthy Life
VEGAN RATATOUILLE. PHOTO CREDIT: HAPPY FOOD HEALTHY LIFE.

Ratatouille is an easy and tasty way to get more veggies on the table. This one showcases Chinese eggplant, which is much easier to enjoy than its traditional cousin because of its thin skin and mild flavor.

Get The Recipe: The Best Easy Vegan Ratatouille

Vegan Stuffed Eggplant

eggplant recipes
VEGAN STUFFED EGGPLANT. PHOTO CREDIT: FOOD PLUS WORDS.

This vegan stuffed eggplant is bursting with Mediterranean flavors! You’ll only need simple ingredients like tomato sauce, black pepper, olive oil, and vegan parmesan.

Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffed Eggplant

Eggplant Lasagna

eggplant recipes
EGGPLANT LASAGNA. PHOTO CREDIT: WHOLESOME YUM.

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

Zaalouk (Moroccan Eggplant Dip)

eggplant recipes
ZAALOUK (MOROCCAN EGGPLANT DIP). PHOTO CREDIT: GYPSY PLATE.

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)

Baba Ghanoush

eggplant recipes
BABA GHANOUSH. PHOTO CREDIT: CORRIE COOKS.

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

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Simple Eggplant Bruschetta

eggplant recipes
SIMPLE EGGPLANT BRUSCHETTA. PHOTO CREDIT: URBAN FARM AND KITCHEN.

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

Eggplant Mesquite Brownies

eggplant recipes
EGGPLANT MESQUITE BROWNIES. PHOTO CREDIT: THE ALL NATURAL VEGAN.

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

Honey Eggplant

eggplant recipes
HONEY EGGPLANT. PHOTO CREDIT: VINTAGE KITCHEN NOTES.

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

Note: All photos included in this roundup are used with permission. Support these exceptional creators by exploring or sharing this article.??

Armenian Eggplant & Carrot Salad

eggplant recipes
ARMENIAN EGGPLANT & CARROT SALAD. PHOTO CREDIT: THE GOOD HEARTED WOMAN.

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

Sesame Hoisin Eggplant Stir Fry

eggplant recipes
SESAME HOISIN EGGPLANT STIR FRY. PHOTO CREDIT: CONNOISSEURUS VEG.

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

BBQ Grilled Eggplant Steaks

eggplant recipes
BBQ GRILLED EGGPLANT STEAKS. PHOTO CREDIT: STRENGTH AND SUNSHINE.

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

Sicilian Eggplant Meatballs

eggplant recipes
SICILIAN EGGPLANT MEATBALLS. PHOTO CREDIT: MANGIA WITH MICHELE.

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

Aubergine and Cauliflower Curry

eggplant recipes
AUBERGINE AND CAULIFLOWER CURRY. PHOTO CREDIT: VEGAN PUNKS.

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

Grilled Eggplant Sandwich

eggplant recipes
GRILLED EGGPLANT SANDWICH. PHOTO CREDIT: KATHY’S VEGAN KITCHEN.

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

Perfect Sautéed Eggplant

eggplant recipes
PERFECT SAUTÉED EGGPLANT. PHOTO CREDIT: PLANT BASED ON A BUDGET.

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

Sambal Terong Balado (Indonesian Sambal Eggplant)

eggplant recipes
SAMBAL TERONG BALADO (INDONESIAN SAMBAL EGGPLANT). PHOTO CREDIT: MY PLANTIFUL COOKING.

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)

Panda Express Eggplant Tofu

eggplant recipes
PANDA EXPRESS EGGPLANT TOFU. PHOTO CREDIT: MY PURE PLANTS.

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

Easy Eggplant Pizza

eggplant recipes
EASY EGGPLANT PIZZA. PHOTO CREDIT: LOW CARB SPARK.

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

Roasted Eggplant Pasta

eggplant recipes
ROASTED EGGPLANT PASTA. PHOTO CREDIT: RAINBOW PLANT LIFE.

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

Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

eggplant recipes
CHEESY EGGPLANT CASSEROLE. PHOTO CREDIT: BROOKLYN FARM GIRL.

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

Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

eggplant recipes
CHINESE EGGPLANT WITH GARLIC SAUCE. PHOTO CREDIT: DAMN SPICY.

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

Spicy Aubergine Chutney

eggplant recipes
SPICY AUBERGINE CHUTNEY. PHOTO CREDIT: THE SPICE ADVENTURESS.

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

Miso-Glazed Aubergine

eggplant recipes
MISO-GLAZED AUBERGINE. PHOTO CREDIT: SIX HUNGRY FEET.

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

Turkish Grilled Eggplant Spread

eggplant recipes
TURKISH GRILLED EGGPLANT SPREAD. PHOTO CREDIT: EMKAY’S KITCHEN.

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

Eggplant Dip with Goat Cheese

eggplant recipes
EGGPLANT DIP WITH GOAT CHEESE. PHOTO CREDIT: ART OF NATURAL LIVING.

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

Vegan Lebanese Eggplant Moussaka

eggplant recipes
VEGAN LEBANESE EGGPLANT MOUSSAKA. PHOTO CREDIT: COOKING GORGEOUS.

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

Instant Pot Aloo Baingan (Potato Eggplant Curry)

eggplant recipes
INSTANT POT ALOO BAINGAN (POTATO EGGPLANT CURRY). PHOTO CREDIT: EASY INDIAN COOKBOOK.

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)

Air Fryer Eggplant Chips

eggplant recipes
AIR FRYER EGGPLANT CHIPS. PHOTO CREDIT: THE DEVIL WEARS SALAD.

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

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

Vegan Stuffed Eggplant

Yield: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

This easy vegan stuffed eggplant recipe features roasted eggplant halves filled with delicious Mediterranean stuffing. It's also dairy-free and gluten-free! 

Instructions

  1. Start by gathering and measuring all the ingredients for your vegan stuffed eggplant.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  3. 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. 
  4. Pour olive oil on the marked eggplants and cook in the oven for 15 minutes until golden brown. 
  5. In a saucepan, cook the cherry tomatoes on medium heat until they soften and burst. 
  6. Scoop out the roasted eggplant flesh with a spoon, careful not to damage the skin.
  7. Add the eggplant flesh to the tomatoes and cook for a few minutes. 
  8. Stir in the tomato sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, pine nuts, and olives.
  9. Mix the pan to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
  10. Fill the eggplant skins with the mixture.
  11. 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: 1
Amount 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.

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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.

19 Okra Recipes Worth Ditching Takeout For

Black History Month
NIGERIAN OKRA SOUP. PHOTO CREDIT: FOOD PLUS WORDS.

Whether you want to create simple sides or hearty mains, these okra recipes will take you on a flavorful voyage. Don’t just push this green veggie to the side of your plate; make it the star.

Read it here: 19 Okra Recipes Worth Ditching Takeout For

25 Zucchini Baking Recipes That Will Turn You into a Veggie Lover

What Are The Benefits Of Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread
ZUCCHINI BREAD. PHOTO CREDIT: FOOD PLUS WORDS.

These flavorful zucchini baking recipes can pave the way for a healthier you! Whether you’re looking for zucchini boats, casseroles, muffins, or various types of bread, you have many options. Try something new today, or indulge in your old favorites – all with a zucchini twist.

Read it here: 25 Zucchini Baking Recipes That Will Turn You into a Veggie Lover

30 Cucumber Recipes That’ll Make You Say “Now, That’s One Cool Veggie!”

Fruits that start with T
PERUVIAN SHRIMP CEVICHE. PHOTO CREDIT: FOOD PLUS WORDS.

Ever thought of cucumbers beyond salads? From refreshing wraps and sandwiches to chilled soups and beverages, these cucumber recipes will take you on a cool, flavorful, and healthy ride. Let’s elevate cucumbers from the sidelines to the spotlight.

Read it here: 30 Cucumber Recipes That’ll Make You Say “Now, That’s One Cool Veggie!”

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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