Eggplant salad

Simple and Delicious Eggplant Salad

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Cooking is an art form, and eggplant salad is one of the most beautiful culinary masterpieces we can create. This simple eggplant salad recipe not only surprises with its refined taste but also brings a touch of nostalgia in every bite. It is a classic dish, appreciated in many cultures, that combines the creamy texture of eggplant with the fresh aroma of onion and olive oil.

The history of eggplant salad is fascinating, as this dish has been cooked and enjoyed for centuries, rooted in diverse culinary traditions. It is a symbol of summer, often associated with outdoor meals, picnics, or gatherings with friends. So, let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants (approximately 600-800 g total)
- 1 medium onion (or more, to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (or sunflower oil, if you prefer)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Step 1: Preparing the Eggplant
We start by preparing the eggplants. Choose firm eggplants, free of spots or scratches. Wash them well under cold running water, and if desired, you can prick them lightly with a fork in several places to avoid bursting during baking. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the eggplants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 30 minutes, until they become soft. You can also grill them for a more pronounced smoky flavor.

Step 2: Peeling the Eggplant
After the eggplants are baked, let them cool slightly, then carefully peel them. The skin will be soft and will come off easily. This is an important step, as the skin can give a bitter texture to the salad. You can use a knife or simply peel them with your fingers.

Step 3: Chopping the Eggplant
Once you have peeled the eggplants, chop them finely. There is no need to make a paste; instead, keep a slightly grainy texture that will add character to the salad. Place the chopped eggplants in a large bowl.

Step 4: Adding the Onion
The onion is the ingredient that will add extra flavor to the eggplant salad. You can grate it finely or chop it small, depending on your preference. Add the onion over the eggplant and mix well. If you want a milder taste, you can soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce its intensity.

Step 5: Seasoning
Now it's time to add the olive oil and salt. Start with 3 tablespoons of oil and adjust to taste. It is important to use high-quality oil, as it will influence the final flavor of the salad. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 6: Resting
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time will allow the flavors to blend and become more intense, resulting in a more delicious eggplant salad.

Step 7: Serving
Before serving, mix the salad again. You can garnish with chopped fresh parsley, which will add a note of freshness and color. The eggplant salad is perfect for a family meal, on a slice of toasted bread, or as a side dish for various dishes.

Tricks and Useful Tips:
- If you want an even more intense-flavored eggplant salad, add a teaspoon of sesame paste or tahini. This will enrich the flavor and provide a unique taste.
- Alternate the onion with bell peppers or olives to add a note of originality.
- The eggplant salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of eggplant salad (approximately 100 g) contains about 90 calories, making it a healthy and nutritious choice. Eggplants are rich in fiber, vitamins (especially B and C vitamins), and antioxidants, having anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen eggplants for this recipe?
It is preferable to use fresh eggplants, as the texture and flavor will not be the same as frozen ones.

2. Is the eggplant salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is vegan, but make sure the olive oil is plant-based.

3. What other dishes can the eggplant salad be paired with?
This salad pairs perfectly with various types of meat, fish, or can be served alongside other salads, cheeses, and olives. It is also delicious on toasted bread or flatbreads.

Simple eggplant salad is a perfect example of a recipe that brings together tradition and authentic taste. Experiment, add your favorite ingredients, and transform it into your personal recipe. Enjoy!