Eggplant salad with mayonnaise

Eggplant Salad with Mayonnaise – A Classic Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including draining time)
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Eggplant salad with mayonnaise is a classic dish, cherished by many generations, with a rich history and a special place in the hearts of food lovers. This salad stands out with its intense flavors and creamy texture, making it perfect as an appetizer or side dish. In this guide, I will teach you step by step how to prepare a perfect eggplant salad with mayonnaise, while also providing you with useful tips, tricks, and some interesting information about the ingredients.

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 medium eggplants
- 2 red onions
- 1 egg yolk (for mayonnaise)
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil, depending on your preferences)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt to taste

Preparing the eggplants:

1. Roasting the eggplants: Start by washing the eggplants well under a stream of cold water. Place them on the stove over high heat, directly on the flame. It is important to turn them occasionally to roast evenly. Roasting over an open flame will give them a smoky flavor, which is particularly pleasant. You will know they are ready when the skin turns black and the eggplants are soft to the touch. This takes about 20-30 minutes.

2. Cooling and draining: After the eggplants are roasted, place them in a bowl and cover them with a damp towel or plastic wrap to cool. This step will help in easier peeling of the skin. After about 30 minutes, remove the burnt skin and stems. Then, let the eggplants drain excess water in a sieve for 2-3 hours. This step is essential to avoid your salad being too watery.

Preparing the mayonnaise:

3. Homemade mayonnaise: While the eggplants are draining, you can prepare the mayonnaise. In a bowl, add the egg yolk, mustard, salt, and lemon juice. Use a whisk or an immersion blender to combine the ingredients. Start adding the oil gradually, mixing continuously until the mayonnaise thickens and becomes creamy. It is important to add the oil slowly to allow for proper emulsification.

Combining the ingredients:

4. Preparing the salad: Once the eggplants have drained sufficiently, finely chop them using an immersion blender or a knife, depending on the desired texture. Place the eggplant puree in a large bowl. Add the prepared mayonnaise, finely chopped red onion, and mix well. Taste and adjust the salt according to your preferences.

5. Serving: Eggplant salad with mayonnaise is perfect for serving on slices of fresh bread. You can pair it with tomatoes, bell peppers, or roasted pepper salad for a contrast of flavors and textures.

Useful tips and variations:

- If you want to give your salad a unique touch, you can add some finely chopped green or black olives, or even a pinch of crushed garlic. These ingredients will bring a complex and interesting flavor.
- For a healthier version, you can opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, resulting in a lighter but equally delicious eggplant salad.
- Make sure the eggplants are well roasted, as texture is essential for a successful salad.
- If you don't have an immersion blender at hand, you can use a fork to mash the eggplants, achieving a more rustic texture.

Nutritional benefits:

Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, vitamins B and C, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. They contribute to heart health, helping to lower cholesterol and maintain normal blood pressure. Additionally, homemade mayonnaise made with olive oil and fresh eggs provides a source of healthy fats, which are essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen eggplants? It is recommended to use fresh eggplants for a better texture. Frozen eggplants may have a higher water content, which can affect the salad.
- What type of bread pairs best? A crunchy homemade bread or a fresh baguette are excellent options to accompany the eggplant salad.
- How can I store the eggplant salad? It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

In conclusion, eggplant salad with mayonnaise is a versatile dish that can be adapted to your personal preferences. It is perfect for parties, festive meals, or simply to be enjoyed with family. Enjoy and don't forget to savor every bite!