Eggplant salad

Eggplant Salad with Mayonnaise – A Culinary Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Today we venture into making a delicious and creamy eggplant salad, a dish that has brought joy to festive tables and picnics around the world. Eggplant salad is a perfect example of culinary art, combining simple ingredients to create a sophisticated and comforting taste.

The history of this recipe stretches back in time, and each family adds its own touch, turning it into a symbol of conviviality. Whether enjoyed on a slice of toasted bread or as a side dish, eggplant salad remains an undeniable favorite.

Ingredients:

- 4 roasted eggplants
- 2 egg yolks
- Oil (approximately 200 ml, depending on the desired consistency)
- 1 green onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- A handful of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of mustard

Step by Step for a Perfect Eggplant Salad

Step 1: Preparing the eggplant
Start by peeling the eggplants, removing the skin. Then, cut them in half lengthwise and sprinkle a little salt on the cut surface. This trick helps to remove the bitterness from the eggplants and improve the texture. Let the eggplants sit in a colander for 15-20 minutes to drain excess water.

Step 2: Roasting the eggplant
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the eggplants on a baking tray, cut side up, and roast them for 25-30 minutes or until they become soft and slightly caramelized. You can check the consistency with a fork; if it goes in easily, the eggplants are ready. Let them cool, then scoop out the flesh with a spoon.

Step 3: Preparing the mayonnaise
In a bowl, add the two egg yolks, mustard, and a pinch of salt. Mix well with a spatula or whisk. Start adding the oil gradually, little by little, while continuously mixing. This process will emulsify the oil with the yolks, forming a creamy mayonnaise. Continue adding oil until you reach the desired amount. If you want a lighter mayonnaise, you can combine sunflower oil with a little olive oil for a more sophisticated taste.

Step 4: Assembling the salad
In a large bowl, place the roasted eggplant flesh and mash it gently with a fork. Add the prepared mayonnaise, mixing gently to avoid making the paste too fine. Grate the green onion, finely chop the parsley, and add them to the bowl. Squeeze the crushed garlic to release its flavors and add that as well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serving
Once you have mixed all the ingredients well, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to blend the flavors. Serve the eggplant salad on slices of toasted bread or alongside fresh vegetables for a healthy snack. Another option is to use it as a filling for sandwiches or as a side dish for meat dishes.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the eggplant: Opt for firm eggplants with shiny skin, avoiding those with spots or signs of damage.
- Vegan option: You can replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative made from avocado or Greek yogurt. This will add a creamy yet healthy note.
- Different flavors: Experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or cumin, to give your salad an interesting twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen eggplants?
Of course! Frozen eggplants can be used, but it is recommended to let them thaw completely before preparation to avoid excess water.

2. How long can the eggplant salad be stored?
Eggplant salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
Here are a few suggestions: roasted bell peppers for a sweet taste, green or black olives for an extra flavor boost, or even chopped nuts for texture.

Ideal Pairings

To complement this eggplant salad, you might opt for a refreshing drink, such as iced tea with lemon or a dry white wine, which will enhance the flavors of the dish. Additionally, eggplant salad pairs perfectly with a cheese pie or grilled vegetables, bringing a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

Enjoy this eggplant salad as a little culinary delight, bringing a touch of tradition and creativity to your plate! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, giving them the chance to discover these delicious flavors as well. Bon appétit!