Eggplant salad with garlic

Eggplant salad with garlic – a classic recipe, full of flavor and memories! Whether it brings to mind summer days spent in the garden or festive meals with loved ones, this dish is truly a symbol of hospitality and culinary joy. I will guide you step by step on how to prepare a flavorful, creamy, and delicious eggplant salad that will impress anyone who tastes it.

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

Ingredients

- 3 medium eggplants
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (preferably thick for a richer consistency)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for an intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (you can use homemade mayonnaise for extra flavor)
- 7-8 cloves of garlic (more or less, depending on preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

The story behind the recipe

Eggplant salad is a traditional dish used by generations in various cultures. Its origins are often discussed, but it is certain that it has been a dish that brought people together around the table. It is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or as a side dish to various main courses. It reminds us of the joy of cooking with simple ingredients, but with an extraordinary result.

Step by Step: How to prepare Eggplant Salad

Step 1: Roasting the eggplants

Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. I recommend choosing medium-sized eggplants, without spots or damage. Place the eggplants on a baking tray and put them in the oven for about 30 minutes, turning them halfway through. They will be ready when the skin is charred and the flesh is soft to the touch.

Useful tips:

- If you prefer a smokier flavor, you can grill the eggplants.
- Another method is to place them directly on the stove flame, turning them constantly, but be careful not to burn them completely.

Step 2: Cooling and peeling the eggplants

After the eggplants are roasted, take them out of the oven and let them cool. When they are cool enough to handle, sprinkle a little salt on them. This will help to remove the skin more easily. Peel them with a knife or by hand, being careful not to lose too much of the flesh.

Step 3: Draining the flesh

Place the peeled eggplants in a colander and let them drain for about 10-15 minutes. This is a crucial step as it helps to remove excess water, making the salad more consistent.

Step 4: Preparing the salad

In a large bowl, chop the eggplants with a knife or use a blender, depending on the texture you prefer. Add the crushed garlic (you can adjust the amount based on how strong you want the flavor), sour cream, mayonnaise, and olive oil. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Possible variations:

- You can also add some chopped black or green olives for a more complex flavor.
- If you like a spicy note, you can incorporate a pinch of dried chili or paprika.

Serving

Eggplant salad is served cold, ideally on a slice of toasted bread or alongside fresh vegetables. It is perfect for enjoying at a party or a family meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, such as a dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade.

Nutritional benefits

Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, vitamins B6 and K, as well as important minerals like potassium and magnesium. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, olive oil brings healthy fats into the diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use pre-roasted eggplants?
Yes, if you have roasted eggplants in advance, you can use them, but make sure they are fresh and of good quality.

2. How can I adapt the recipe for vegans?
You can replace the sour cream and mayonnaise with soy yogurt or other plant-based alternatives, and olive oil is already vegan.

3. How can I store eggplant salad?
Eggplant salad stores well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days.

4. What other recipes can it be combined with?
Eggplant salad pairs perfectly with tomato salads, olives, or a platter of cheeses and cold cuts.

Conclusion

Eggplant salad with garlic is a simple yet extremely tasty recipe that brings a touch of tradition to every meal. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will surely become a family favorite. So, don’t hesitate, grab the ingredients, and let your creativity shine! Enjoy your meal!