Jamie Oliver Sandwich

Oven-Baked Eggplant Sandwich with Feta Cheese

Who doesn't love a delicious and easy-to-make sandwich? Today, I will share a recipe for an oven-baked eggplant sandwich with feta cheese and a creamy garlic mayonnaise sauce that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is not only simple but also healthy, making it a perfect choice for a quick snack or a light lunch, ideal for warm summer days. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 1 small eggplant
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed
- 2 slices of bread (fresh and crispy)
- 1 garden tomato, sliced
- Crumbled feta cheese (about 50g)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preparing the eggplant: Start by washing the eggplant and slicing it lengthwise. There’s no need to peel it; the skin will add a pleasant texture. Just remove the ends. The eggplant slices should be about 1 cm thick to brown evenly.

2. Baking the eggplant: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them with olive oil on both sides. This step will not only help brown the eggplant but will also add a rich flavor. Put the tray in the oven and bake the eggplant for 15 minutes, flipping them over after 10 minutes, until they are golden and soft.

3. Making the sauce: While the eggplant is baking, you can prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise with the crushed garlic clove. The garlic flavor will give a delicious kick to this sauce, making the sandwich even tastier.

4. Preparing the bread: You can toast the slices of bread either in a toaster or in the oven until they become crispy. If using the oven, you can brush them with a little olive oil for added flavor.

5. Assembling the sandwich: Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Start by spreading each slice of bread with the garlic mayonnaise sauce. Place the browned eggplant slices on one slice, followed by the tomato slices and crumbled feta cheese. Add the fresh basil leaves, which will bring a fresh and vibrant aroma. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover with the other slice of bread.

6. Serving: Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately! You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or some olives for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Helpful tips:

- If you want to add extra crunch, you can sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts on top of the ingredients before closing the sandwich.
- This recipe is versatile: you can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a more intense flavor or add slices of avocado for a creamy texture.
- Instead of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

Nutritional benefits:

This sandwich is packed with nutrients. Eggplants are rich in antioxidants and fiber, while tomatoes provide vitamins C and K. Feta cheese adds protein and calcium, making this sandwich a balanced choice.

Estimated calories per serving: 350-400 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Recipe history:

The eggplant sandwich is a popular choice in many cultures where eggplants are a staple ingredient. This recipe was inspired by the culinary style of a famous chef who paid homage to simple and fresh ingredients. Cooking with eggplants has become a tradition over time, due to their versatility and flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen eggplants?
It is not recommended, as their texture will change. Fresh eggplants are best for this recipe.

2. Can I prepare the sandwich a day in advance?
You can prepare all the ingredients, but it is recommended to assemble the sandwich right before serving to keep the bread crispy.

3. What drinks pair well with this sandwich?
A cold lemonade, iced tea, or a glass of dry white wine pairs perfectly with this sandwich.

In conclusion, this oven-baked eggplant sandwich with feta cheese is a delicious and healthy choice that is easy to prepare. Whether you serve it for a quick lunch or a snack, it will surely impress. Enjoy it with friends or family and savor its delightful flavors!