Eggplant salad

Eggplant salad – a true symbol of summer, full of flavors and tradition. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect to be served as an appetizer or at a small snack with friends. Whether you enjoy it on toasted bread or alongside other salads, eggplant salad is definitely a dish that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Draining time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 3 medium eggplants (choose medium-sized eggplants with smooth skin and no spots)
- 100 ml olive oil (or sunflower oil, depending on your preference)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 bunch of green onions (young onions add a fresh note)
- Juice of half a lemon (for a tangy flavor)
- Fresh parsley and cherry tomatoes for garnish

History of Eggplant Salad:
Eggplant salad is a dish found in many cultures, with deep roots in culinary traditions. It was created out of the necessity to preserve eggplants and turn them into a tasty delight. Over time, each region has added its personal touch to the recipe, incorporating local ingredients or unique preparation techniques. Today, eggplant salad is a symbol of hospitality and family meals, often served at celebrations and special occasions.

Step by step for a perfect eggplant salad:

1. Preparing the eggplants:
Start by wiping the eggplants with a damp cloth to remove impurities. Then, place them on a vegetable grill or directly over an open flame. It is important to turn them occasionally to cook evenly. The grill will provide a smoky flavor that will enrich the salad's aroma.

2. Draining the eggplants:
Once the eggplants are cooked and the skin has turned black, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly. Cut them lengthwise to allow the juice to drain. Sprinkle a bit of salt over them and place them in a colander. Let them drain for about an hour. This step is essential to eliminate the natural bitterness of the eggplant and achieve a creamy texture.

3. Peeling the eggplants:
After draining, peel the eggplants. Use a knife or a spoon to gently remove the skin. You will notice that the flesh becomes soft and easy to process.

4. Chopping the eggplants:
Use a wooden knife to chop the eggplants on a wooden cutting board. Manual chopping will give the salad a rustic and authentic texture. Avoid using a food processor, as it will create too fine a paste.

5. Mixing the ingredients:
Place the chopped eggplants in a large bowl. Gradually start mixing them with olive oil, adding it to taste. It is important to add the oil gradually to control the consistency. Add the lemon juice and finely chopped green onions. Mix all the ingredients very well until you achieve a uniform composition.

6. Garnishing and serving:
Once the salad is mixed, decorate it with chopped fresh parsley and a few halved cherry tomatoes. This will not only add a splash of color but also a fresh and tangy taste.

Serving suggestions:
Eggplant salad pairs perfectly with slices of toasted bread, but you can also experiment with flatbreads or crunchy crackers. Additionally, a delicious combination is to serve it alongside roasted pepper salad or tomato salad, creating a colorful and tasty platter.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen eggplants?: While possible, the taste will not be as intense as fresh ones. If you choose this option, make sure to thaw them well and drain.
- How can I tell if the eggplants are cooked enough?: When the skin turns black and the eggplants are soft to the touch, it's a sign they are ready.
- How long can eggplant salad be stored?: In the refrigerator, eggplant salad can be kept for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

Nutritional benefits:
Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, vitamins B and K, and contain fiber that aids digestion. Adding olive oil provides healthy fatty acids, and green onions add extra vitamins and minerals. Thus, eggplant salad is not only delicious but also healthy!

Possible variations:
For a more flavorful eggplant salad, you can add a few extra ingredients:
- Crushed garlic: for a more intense flavor.
- Chopped olives: for a Mediterranean touch.
- Bell pepper or sweet pepper: for a note of sweetness and crunch.
- Chopped nuts: add an interesting texture and a hint of flavor.

In conclusion, eggplant salad is a versatile dish that can be customized according to your preferences. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a delicious meal, it will surely impress everyone. Bon appétit!