Eggplant salad

Eggplant Salad with Mayonnaise - A Classic Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Who doesn't love a well-made eggplant salad? It's a classic dish, full of flavor and tradition, that can accompany any meal, from a weekend barbecue to an elegant dinner. Although the recipe is simple, each step is essential to achieve a creamy and delicious eggplant salad. Let's discover together how to prepare it!

Ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh eggplants
- 1 medium onion
- Salt, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or to taste)
- 200 ml sunflower oil or olive oil
- 2 boiled eggs
- 1 raw egg
- A few drops of lemon
- Cherry tomatoes or slices of tomatoes, for decoration

Preparing the Eggplants:

1. Roasting the eggplants: Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. Wash the eggplants well, then prick them with a fork on the surface. This step is important as it helps release steam during roasting, preventing them from exploding. Place the eggplants on a baking tray and roast for about 30 minutes until they become tender and the skin chars slightly.

2. Cooling the eggplants: After the eggplants are roasted, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, remove the skin, which should come off easily. Place the eggplant flesh in a bowl and let it drain for an hour. This step helps eliminate excess water, which is essential to avoid a watery salad.

Preparing the Mayonnaise:

3. Mayonnaise: In a blender or with a whisk, add the 2 boiled eggs and the raw egg. Blend well until you achieve a smooth paste. While continuing to blend, gradually add the oil, starting with a small amount. This process is crucial – if you add the oil too quickly, the mayonnaise may curdle. Add a few drops of lemon to give a fresh taste and improve the texture.

Mixing the Ingredients:

4. The onion: While the mayonnaise is ready, chop the onion as finely as possible. Mix the onion with salt and balsamic vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes. This process enhances the onion's flavor and makes it less pungent.

5. Combining: After the eggplants have drained, place them in a large bowl. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mash them gently, achieving a thick paste. Add the marinated onion, then gradually incorporate the mayonnaise, tasting along the way to adjust the flavors.

Serving:

6. Presentation: Transfer the eggplant salad to a platter or serving bowl. You can decorate with halved cherry tomatoes or slices of fresh tomatoes. This detail not only improves the appearance but also adds a pleasant taste contrast.

7. Refrigeration: It is ideal to let the eggplant salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and become even more intense.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing eggplants: Opt for fresh eggplants without spots to achieve a creamy texture.
- Grilled version: If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can grill the eggplants instead of roasting them. This will give them a delicious smoky taste.
- Vegan mayonnaise: You can replace the raw egg with a vegan alternative, such as a lentil egg or plant-based protein.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How long can I keep the eggplant salad? The eggplant salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
2. Can the eggplant salad be frozen? It is not recommended to freeze the eggplant salad, as the texture will deteriorate upon thawing.
3. Can I add other ingredients? Of course! You can experiment with olives, roasted red peppers, or fresh herbs to give it a personal twist.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This eggplant salad is not only delicious but also healthy. Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, vitamins B and K, and the mayonnaise provides a source of healthy fats. A serving has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Serving Suggestions:

Eggplant salad is perfect alongside toasted bread or warm pita. It also pairs wonderfully with a chilled white wine or a mint lemonade cocktail for an unforgettable culinary experience.

In conclusion, preparing an eggplant salad is a simple process but requires a bit of patience and attention to detail. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or as a side dish, this delicacy will always bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't forget to share the recipe with your friends and encourage them to explore their own variations! Enjoy!