Oven-baked eggplant with garlic

Oven-Roasted Eggplants with Garlic – A Mediterranean Delight

If you're looking for a simple yet exceptional dish that adds a burst of flavor to your meals, oven-roasted eggplants with garlic are the perfect choice. This classic recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and can be served as a main course or a side dish. I will guide you step by step on how to achieve the best roasted eggplants, infused with the flavors of garlic and spices, ensuring that every bite is a Mediterranean explosion of taste.

Preparation Time:
- Active time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 45-50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for an extra kick)
- 1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or more, to taste)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Dolma (a Turkish aromatic spice, optional, for a more complex flavor)

Preparing the Oven-Roasted Eggplants with Garlic:

1. Preparing the Eggplants:
Start by washing the eggplants thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, cut the eggplants in half lengthwise. This step not only makes them easier to cook but also allows the flavors to penetrate better.

2. Scoring the Eggplants:
Using a sharp knife, make several deep cuts in the flesh of the eggplant, being careful not to cut through the skin. These cuts will help the eggplants absorb the oil and flavors more effectively.

3. Salting:
Rub each half of the eggplant with salt, both on the surface and inside the cuts. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This process will help draw out moisture from the eggplants, making them less bitter and more flavorful.

4. Preparing the Garlic:
While the eggplants are salting, slice the garlic cloves thinly. Carefully place them in the cuts made earlier. The garlic's aroma will infuse the eggplants during baking, giving them an irresistible taste.

5. Mixing the Oil and Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with sweet paprika and, if you want an extra kick, add the hot paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and pour this mixture over the eggplants, ensuring it seeps into all the cuts. Eggplants have an incredible ability to absorb oil, so don’t hesitate to use a generous amount.

6. Baking:
Place the eggplants cut-side up in a baking dish. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and put the dish in the oven. Bake the eggplants for 45-50 minutes, basting them occasionally with the oil from the dish. This will help achieve a soft texture and a lightly caramelized crust, making every bite delicious.

7. Serving:
Once the eggplants are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for added freshness and color. You can serve the eggplants with a garlic and sour cream sauce or as a side dish alongside a meat or fish main course.

Final Suggestions:
These oven-roasted garlic eggplants can quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as cumin or oregano, to give the dish a personalized touch. Also, don’t hesitate to add feta or mozzarella cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for an even richer experience.

Nutritional Information:
A serving of oven-roasted eggplants with garlic contains approximately:
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fiber: 6 g

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can also try other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers using the same technique.
- How can I store leftover eggplants? Leftover eggplants can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- What can I serve alongside the garlic eggplants? These eggplants pair excellently with a fresh green salad or a serving of flavored couscous.

In conclusion, oven-roasted eggplants with garlic are a simple and versatile recipe that brings a touch of flavor to every meal. Try it out and let yourself be carried away by its Mediterranean aromas, and every meal will become a true celebration of taste!