Eggplant salad with roasted pepper

Eggplant salad with roasted peppers: a classic delicacy, easy to prepare, that brings a touch of magic to every meal. This recipe combines the intense flavors of roasted eggplant with the sweetness of roasted peppers, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also a true visual delight. Whether you enjoy it with a slice of fresh bread or use it as a side dish, this salad will surely become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes (depending on the cooking method)
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants (preferably from the freezer)
- 3 roasted bell peppers (from the freezer)
- 1 red onion
- 1 egg yolk (for mayonnaise)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower or olive, according to preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Practical tips about ingredients:
- Eggplants: Choose eggplants that have been roasted and frozen to preserve the intense flavors. If using fresh eggplants, roast them on a grill or in the oven until the skin turns black and the flesh becomes soft.
- Peppers: Roasted peppers have a sweet and smoky flavor. If you have fresh peppers, you can roast them before using. Freezing them will make them easier to peel.
- Red onion: This adds a crunchy note and vibrant color to the salad. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use white onion or green onion.
- Mayonnaise: Opt to make homemade mayonnaise for a fresh and natural taste. It’s simple to make and much healthier than store-bought versions.

Step-by-step preparation process:

1. Roasting the vegetables: If using fresh eggplants and peppers, preheat the oven to 200°C. Arrange the eggplants and peppers on a baking tray. Roast the eggplants for 30-40 minutes until the skin turns black and the flesh softens. The peppers roast for about 20-30 minutes until the skin blisters. After roasting, let them cool slightly.

2. Cleaning the vegetables: Once the vegetables have cooled, peel the eggplants and let them drain in a colander for 15 minutes. Peel the peppers and chop them finely.

3. Making the mayonnaise: In a deep bowl, place the egg yolk and start mixing with a whisk or mixer. Gradually add the oil, continuing to mix constantly until the mayonnaise becomes emulsified and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped eggplants (you can use a mixer for a finer texture), the finely chopped peppers, and the chopped red onion. Add the mayonnaise and mix well. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Let the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serving: The eggplant salad with roasted peppers is delicious on fresh or toasted bread. You can garnish it with a few sprigs of fresh parsley for a more appealing look.

Notes and variations:
- Variations: Try adding chopped olives, crushed garlic, or even some nuts for different taste and texture. You can also replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Storage: The salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it perfect for planned meals.

Nutritional values:
This salad is an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, and peppers contain vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh vegetables? Yes, fresh vegetables are great, but roasting them may take longer.
- How can I make mayonnaise easier? If you don’t have time to make homemade mayonnaise, you can use a store-bought version, but check the ingredients to choose a healthy option.
- What other dishes pair well with this salad? This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meat, fish, or even a warm soup. A dry white wine or craft beer are excellent drinks to complement the meal.

A personal note:
My memories of this salad are closely tied to family meals during the summer when fresh vegetables were in high demand. I remember how my grandmother would add a splash of lemon for extra freshness. I encourage you to experiment and add your own personal touches to the recipe!

Enjoy making this roasted pepper eggplant salad! Savor every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table!