Eggplant salad

Eggplant Salad - A Classic Delight with a Modern Twist

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Eggplants are a versatile vegetable, used throughout time in various culinary cultures. Eggplant salad is a dish that evokes memories of moments spent with loved ones, at festive meals or simply on weekend days. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the velvety texture of eggplant with the fresh taste of onion and mayonnaise, creating a delicious combination.

Ingredients

For the eggplant salad:
- 300 g roasted eggplant
- 1 medium onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or oil of choice)
- Salt to taste

For the mayonnaise:
- 1 boiled egg (preferably hard-boiled)
- 1 raw egg
- 200 ml sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more distinct taste)
- Salt to taste
- Juice from half a lemon

A Bit of History

Eggplant salad has its origins in traditional kitchens, appreciated for its simplicity and combination of flavors. Over the years, each family has added a personal touch to this dish, incorporating various ingredients and varying preparation techniques. Today, it is a beloved appetizer served at family gatherings, parties, or simply as a healthy snack.

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Roasting the Eggplants

1. Prepare the eggplants: Choose ripe eggplants with smooth, shiny skin. You can roast the eggplants in the oven at 200°C for about 30 minutes or until softened. If you prefer, you can grill them for a smoky flavor.
2. Peeling: Once the eggplants have cooled, peel them and place the pulp in a bowl. Use a fork to gently mash them, but don't overdo it; you want to keep a slightly grainy texture.

Step 2: Preparing the Mayonnaise

3. Making the mayonnaise: In a blender or bowl, add the chopped boiled egg, raw egg, salt, and 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Blend for a few seconds.
4. Adding the oil: While continuing to blend, gradually add the oil in a thin stream to achieve a creamy mayonnaise. If the mayonnaise is too thick, you can add a little cold water or lemon juice to adjust its consistency.
5. Taste: Once the mayonnaise is ready, taste and adjust the salt and lemon juice to your preference.

Step 3: Mixing the Ingredients

6. Combining the ingredients: Add the mashed eggplants to a large bowl. Finely chop the onion and add it over the eggplants. Pour in a tablespoon of oil and the prepared mayonnaise. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients without overly destroying the texture of the eggplants.
7. Seasoning: Add salt to taste and mix again. Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Helpful Tips

- For a more intense flavor: You can add 1-2 crushed garlic cloves to the eggplant mixture.
- Variations: If you want to change the recipe a bit, you can try adding chopped green or black olives, bell peppers, or even chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Serving: Eggplant salad is best served on slices of toasted bread or as a side dish with cooked meals. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad and a refreshing drink, such as lemonade or iced tea.

Nutritional Information

This eggplant salad contains important nutritional benefits, being rich in fiber and vitamins. Eggplants are an excellent source of antioxidants, and mayonnaise provides healthy fats, so make sure to choose quality oil. A 100 g serving of eggplant salad has approximately 150 calories, but this may vary depending on the amount of oil and mayonnaise used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen eggplants?
- While it's preferable to use fresh eggplants, you can opt for frozen ones. Make sure to fully thaw them and drain any excess water before using them in the recipe.

2. How can I store eggplant salad?
- Eggplant salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy its flavor.

3. What other recipes can I try with eggplants?
- Besides eggplant salad, you can try delicious recipes like breaded eggplants, moussaka, or stuffed eggplants. Eggplants are very versatile and can be cooked in various ways.

Personal Note

To add a touch of originality, I suggest trying to use flavored oil or adding a few fresh basil leaves to the eggplant salad. This will provide a fresh taste and a distinct note to this classic dish.

Enjoy every step of cooking and remember: cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to create delicious memories. Bon appétit!