Eggplant salad

Eggplant salad with a touch of passion

Total time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

When it comes to traditional dishes, eggplant salad holds a special place in the hearts of many. This simple yet flavorful recipe stands out with its fine texture and unmistakable taste, bringing a touch of nostalgia in every serving. Offered as a versatile appetizer, eggplant salad is perfect for parties, family meals, or simply to be enjoyed on a slice of fresh bread.

Ingredients:
- 4 long eggplants, with a deep black or purple hue
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil, if preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- Salt, to taste

Ingredient details:
Eggplants are the stars of this recipe. Choose eggplants that are firm but not too hard, and have a uniform color. Long, thinner eggplants are ideal for achieving a fine and creamy eggplant salad. Olive oil adds a touch of refinement, but if you prefer a more neutral taste, sunflower oil is an excellent choice. Onion and garlic add extra flavor, but adjust the quantities according to personal preferences.

Step by step: Preparing the eggplant salad:

1. Preparing the eggplants:
Start by washing the eggplants under cold running water. Dry them with a clean towel. This is an essential step to remove impurities and prepare the eggplants for baking.

2. Baking the eggplants:
There are several methods to bake eggplants. I prefer to roast them over the flame of the stove, as this gives them a unique flavor and a slightly smoky texture. If you want to use the oven, preheat it to 200°C. Place the eggplants on a tray and bake for about 25 minutes, turning them halfway through. When the eggplants are baked, the skin will become blackened and the flesh will be soft.

3. Cleaning the eggplants:
Once the eggplants are baked, carefully remove them from the heat or the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes, then cut off the stem end. Use a knife to split them lengthwise and with a spoon, scoop out the soft flesh. Place the flesh in a colander to let the excess water drain for about 10 minutes.

4. Preparing the salad:
After the flesh has drained, place it in a deep bowl and start mixing it with a hand mixer or a blender. Gradually add the oil, continuing to mix until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic, mixing well to combine the flavors. Taste and add salt to your liking.

5. Serving:
The eggplant salad can be served on toasted bread slices or as a side dish for various dishes. It pairs perfectly with fresh tomatoes, olives, or even on a vegetable salad. A delicious suggestion is to add some fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Variations and useful tips:
If you want to experiment, you can also add boiled zucchini to improve the texture and reduce the calorie content. This is an excellent option for those who want a lighter eggplant salad. Another variation is to replace onion with green onion or add roasted peppers for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Eggplants are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, having a low calorie content, making them an ideal food for a healthy diet. Olive oil adds healthy fatty acids, while onion and garlic contribute to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen eggplants? It is preferable to use fresh eggplants to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- How can I store the eggplant salad? The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Can other ingredients be added? Of course! You can experiment by adding mayonnaise, yogurt, or even feta cheese to achieve a creamier version.

Serving suggestion:
Serve the eggplant salad alongside a refreshing drink, such as a dry white wine or a mint lemonade cocktail. This will add a touch of freshness and perfectly complement the rich taste of the salad.

With every bite of this eggplant salad, you will feel how tradition and passion for cooking blend into a simple yet extraordinary dish. So, don’t hesitate any longer, gather the ingredients, and let yourself be inspired by the flavors of this delicious recipe!