Summer eggplant salad without mayonnaise

Summer Eggplant Salad Without Mayonnaise - A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Who doesn't love a fresh, flavorful eggplant salad? This simple yet refined recipe combines the all-natural flavors of roasted vegetables with a splash of oil and spices, creating the perfect dish for hot summer days. Without mayonnaise, this salad is not only lighter but also healthier, offering an ideal alternative for those who prefer to avoid extra fats. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious eggplant salad!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 4 large eggplants
- 3 medium onions
- 1 garlic clove (or more, to taste)
- 100 ml olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preparing the Eggplants

Start by washing the eggplants thoroughly under cold running water. Choose firm eggplants with a uniform color and no blemishes. I recommend selecting medium-sized ones, as they have a better texture and are less bitter.

2. Roasting the Eggplants

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. You can roast them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Prick the eggplants in several places with a fork; this will allow steam to escape during roasting. Roast the eggplants for 30-40 minutes until they are tender and the skin is nicely browned. Check them occasionally; they should be easy to pierce with a fork.

3. Cooling and Peeling

Once the eggplants are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes. Then, peel off the skin. You can use a knife or simply pull the skin off with your hands. Place the eggplant flesh in a large bowl.

4. Preparing the Onions and Garlic

Meanwhile, finely chop the onions and garlic clove. I recommend using a sharp knife for a finer cut. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are golden and tender. The aroma of the sautéed onions will enhance the dish and give it a unique flavor.

5. Mixing the Ingredients

After the onions and garlic are sautéed, pour them hot over the peeled eggplants. Add salt and pepper to taste. Begin to mix all the ingredients well using a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure the eggplants are evenly coated with the flavored oil.

6. Cooling and Serving

Allow the salad to cool completely at room temperature. This will allow the flavors to meld and become even more intense. You can serve it immediately, but I recommend letting it chill in the refrigerator for an hour to allow the flavors to combine.

Serving

The eggplant salad is served cold, as an appetizer or side dish. It pairs perfectly with toasted bread, pita, or as a filling for sandwiches. It also goes wonderfully with feta cheese, olives, or fresh vegetables.

Tips and Tricks

- If you enjoy stronger flavors, you can add some fresh basil or dill at the end for an extra kick.
- For a smokier taste, try roasting the eggplants on a grill instead of in the oven.
- The eggplant salad is ideal for travel since it doesn’t contain mayonnaise, making it less prone to spoilage.

Nutritional Benefits

This eggplant salad is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while being low in calories. Eggplants are an excellent source of antioxidants and have beneficial effects on heart health. Additionally, onions and garlic contribute to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, you can vary the recipe by adding roasted bell peppers or red peppers for extra color and flavor.
- How can I store the eggplant salad? It can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Is it vegan? Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan and healthy.

Variations

- Eggplant Salad with Tomatoes: Add chopped fresh tomatoes for an even juicier salad.
- Eggplant Salad with Avocado: Replace some of the oil with mashed avocado for a creamy texture and unique flavor.

Regardless of the version you choose, the mayonnaise-free eggplant salad remains a versatile and tasty dish, perfect for enjoying every summer. I encourage you to try this recipe and adapt it to your liking! Enjoy!