Baskets with eggplant salad and cheese.

Eggplant and cheese salad baskets: A delight that combines tradition with innovation

If you are looking for a recipe that impresses with its color and flavor, the eggplant and cheese salad baskets are exactly what you need! These small culinary masterpieces are not only tasty but also very attractive, making them perfect for any occasion: from parties to romantic dinners. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step on how to prepare them, sharing some useful tricks and tips along the way.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 4 medium tomatoes
- 2 bell peppers (preferably in different colors for a vibrant look)
- 200 g feta cheese
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 large eggplant
- 50 ml olive or sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste
- 2 olives for garnish
- 1 small onion (optional)

A brief story about eggplant salad

Eggplant salad is a dish that has gained popularity in many culinary cultures, often associated with summer meals and picnics. It symbolizes the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, with deep roots in gastronomic traditions. Its smoky flavor, obtained by roasting the eggplant, combined with creamy cheese, makes eggplant salad a perfect choice to enjoy in the company of friends or family.

Preparing the eggplant

1. Start by washing the eggplant well under cold running water. This will help remove impurities.
2. Roast the eggplant over an open flame on the stove or on a grill until the skin becomes blackened and cracked. This process will add a distinct smoky flavor to your salad.
3. Once the eggplant is roasted, place it on a wooden cutting board and let it cool for a few minutes, then peel off the skin with a knife. Be sure to drain it well to remove excess water so that the salad is not watery.

Preparing the cheese and sauce

4. In a bowl, add the feta cheese and finely chopped fresh dill. The dill will add a fresh and pleasant aroma to the dish.
5. Mix the ingredients with a fork or a mixer until you obtain a smooth paste. If you desire a finer texture, you can add an egg yolk for creaminess.

Preparing the vegetables

6. Take the 4 tomatoes and cut off the tops (like a lid), then scoop out the insides with a small spoon, forming the baskets. Make sure each tomato has the stem at the base so they are stable.
7. The bell peppers can be cut into the same shape, making sure to keep the handle.

Filling the vegetables

8. In another bowl, add the well-drained eggplant, olive oil, and, if you choose, the finely chopped onion. Mix the ingredients well and add salt to taste. This will be the filling for the tomatoes.
9. Fill the peppers with the cheese paste and the tomatoes with the eggplant salad. Use a spoon to ensure they are full.

Decorating and serving

10. Slice the olives thinly to use as decoration. Place them on each basket for an elegant look.
11. The baskets can be served immediately, but if you have time, let them rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld.

Serving suggestions

These eggplant and cheese salad baskets pair perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as white wine or a fruit cocktail. You can also accompany the dish with a fresh green salad or a crunchy baguette.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a different taste.

2. How can I store the eggplant salad?
Eggplant salad can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days.

3. What other vegetables could I use?
You can try using zucchini or mushrooms to create interesting variations.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy! Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, being rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Tomatoes and eggplants are excellent sources of antioxidants, while feta cheese provides protein and calcium.

In conclusion, the eggplant and cheese salad baskets are an excellent choice for a savory appetizer, easy to prepare and full of color. I encourage you to try this recipe at home, enjoy every step of the cooking process, and share this delicacy with your loved ones. Bon appétit!