Eggplant salad

Eggplant Salad - A classic delicacy, full of flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

When it comes to traditional salads, eggplant salad is at the top of the preferences. This simple and quick recipe is not only a perfect accompaniment for a summer meal but also a delicacy that can be served on toasted bread, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer. The eggplants, with their creamy texture and distinct taste, are the main ingredient that transforms this recipe into a true delight.

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants
- 1 medium onion
- 200 ml sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (preferably white wine vinegar)
- Salt, to taste

Ingredient details:
- Eggplants: Choose firm eggplants with smooth skin to achieve a pleasant texture in the salad. Smaller eggplants are usually sweeter and less bitter.
- Onion: White or yellow onion is ideal for providing a pleasant contrast and a note of freshness to the salad. If you prefer a milder taste, you can opt for green onions.
- Oil: Sunflower oil is standard, but if you want a more sophisticated flavor, extra virgin olive oil is an excellent choice.
- Vinegar: White wine vinegar adds a pleasant acidity, but you can also experiment with apple cider or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the eggplants:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C. Wash the eggplants well and prick them with a fork in several places to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Place the eggplants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the skin turns black and the flesh is soft. Turn the eggplants halfway through for even baking.

2. Peeling the eggplants:
- Once the eggplants are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10-15 minutes. The skin will peel off easily, but you can use a knife to remove it completely.
- Place the flesh on a cutting board and chop it finely with a knife to achieve a smoother texture.

3. Preparing the salad:
- In a bowl, add the chopped eggplant flesh and the finely chopped onion. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Start gradually incorporating the oil, stirring constantly as if you are making mayonnaise. This step is essential to achieve a creamy salad.
- Finally, add the vinegar and salt to taste. Mix again to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Practical tips:
- Cooling the eggplants: It is important to let the eggplants cool before chopping them to avoid a watery salad.
- Texture: If you want a finer texture, you can use an immersion blender, but be careful not to turn it into a paste.
- Taste: Adjust the amount of salt and vinegar according to your preferences. The vinegar can be added gradually to avoid overpowering the delicate flavor of the eggplants.

Possible variations:
- Additions: You can experiment by adding roasted peppers, olives, or even garlic for extra flavor.
- Serving: Eggplant salad is usually served with fresh or toasted bread, but it can also be a delicious filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Ideal pairings:
- Drinks: Eggplant salad pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh lemonade cocktail.
- Complementary recipes: This salad can be served alongside grilled dishes such as meat or vegetable skewers or even with a cheese platter.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of eggplant salad (approximately 100g) contains about 130 calories, making it a healthy choice packed with nutrients. Eggplants are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, contributing to heart health and maintaining a healthy weight.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen eggplants?: It is preferable to use fresh eggplants to achieve optimal texture, but if you have frozen eggplants, make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- How long can eggplant salad be stored?: Eggplant salad stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

Eggplant salad is not just a simple recipe, but also a way to bring a part of culinary tradition to the table, with an authentic and comforting taste. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or as a side dish, this salad will surely delight everyone's taste buds. So gather your ingredients and enjoy a flavorful culinary experience!