Roasted eggplant salad with tomato paste (Arabian style)

Roasted Eggplant Salad with Tomato Paste - a refined and flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I invite you to discover a delicious and easy-to-make recipe: roasted eggplant salad with tomato paste. This salad, often found in various culinary cultures, becomes truly special through its combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. It is an ideal appetizer for any occasion, especially during fasting periods when you can enjoy natural and healthy flavors.

The history of this recipe is fascinating. Originating from Mediterranean kitchens, roasted eggplant salad has become popular worldwide due to its creamy texture and savory taste. Especially during Ramadan, it is frequently prepared as part of the iftar meal, alongside other salads and appetizers. It symbolizes hospitality and conviviality, perfect for enjoying with loved ones.

Basic ingredients:
- 1 medium onion
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (crushed)
- 1 large roasted eggplant
- 3-4 tablespoons of lemon juice (or to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil

Ingredient details:
- Eggplants: Choose shiny, firm eggplants without blemishes. Roast them on a grill or in the oven until soft. They are rich in antioxidants and can contribute to heart health.
- Onion: Onion adds a sweet flavor to the salad. You can opt for white or red onion, depending on your preference.
- Garlic: Besides its distinctive aroma, garlic has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.
- Tomato paste: Choose a high-quality tomato paste for an intense flavor in the salad.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Start by roasting the eggplants. You can roast them on a grill or in the oven until the skin turns black and the flesh is soft. They typically roast at 200°C for about 30-40 minutes. Let them cool, then peel off the skin and cut them into large pieces.

2. In a pan, add the 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden. About 5-7 minutes will be sufficient.

3. When the onion is ready, add the crushed garlic cloves and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic turns golden and releases its aroma.

4. Now it’s time to add the roasted eggplants. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Let the mixture cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

5. Add the tomato paste and mix everything well. Let the salad cook for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Make sure to stir frequently.

6. After the mixture has thickened slightly, remove the pan from heat. Add lemon juice and salt to taste. These will add a pleasant contrast to the flavors.

7. Use a hand or electric blender to turn the mixture into a smooth paste or leave it chunkier, depending on your preferences. Personally, I like to keep some of the eggplant's texture.

8. Transfer the salad to a platter or a plate. Garnish as desired, with a few fresh parsley leaves or lemon slices for a vibrant look.

9. Serve the salad cold as an appetizer. It pairs wonderfully with toasted bread or fresh vegetables.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can incorporate spices like cumin or smoked paprika.
- The eggplant salad pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or freshly squeezed citrus juice.
- You can use it as a filling for sandwiches or as a side dish for various meals.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This salad is a healthy choice, with approximately 150 calories per serving. Eggplants are an excellent source of fiber, and olive oil provides healthy fats. Additionally, garlic and onion contribute to boosting the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplants?
Yes, you can experiment with roasted bell peppers or zucchini to change the flavor.

2. How can I store the salad?
You can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

3. Is it suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan and healthy.

So, I invite you to try this roasted eggplant salad with tomato paste and enjoy its savory taste. This is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that will bring a touch of joy to your table!