Simple Baked Eggplant

Introduction

History

Eggplant has been a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Baked eggplant dishes have been enjoyed by many cultures around the world, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe. This simple baked eggplant recipe is a modern take on a classic dish, perfect for a quick and easy meal.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly to ensure even cooking.

- Brushing the eggplant slices with a mixture of low-sodium tamari and balsamic vinegar adds a delicious umami flavor.

- Adding fresh basil and sliced tomato on top of the eggplant before baking enhances the dish's flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the baked eggplant slices as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. They also make a great addition to a salad or sandwich.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the eggplant slices allows them to cook evenly and develop a delicious caramelized flavor. Make sure to flip the slices halfway through baking to ensure they are cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium tamari if preferred.

- Substitute red bell pepper with yellow or orange bell pepper for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the eggplant slices ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This dish is best served fresh out of the oven.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the baked eggplant slices on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation. Drizzle with extra balsamic vinegar before serving for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light and refreshing white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. It also pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 80 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Folate.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Contains soy.

Summary

Simple Baked Eggplant is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

Simple Baked Eggplant is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Simple Baked Eggplant. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from the farmer's market with a beautiful, ripe eggplant. As I unpacked my market haul, I remembered a conversation I had with my dear friend Anna about her favorite way to prepare eggplant.

Anna was a fantastic cook, and I was always eager to learn new recipes from her. She had a knack for turning simple ingredients into delicious meals, and I knew that her recipe for Simple Baked Eggplant would be no exception. I reached for the phone and called her up, hoping she would be willing to share her secret with me.

To my delight, Anna answered on the first ring, her voice warm and familiar. I told her about the eggplant I had just bought and asked if she would share her recipe with me. Without hesitation, she began to walk me through the steps, her instructions clear and concise.

"First, you'll want to slice the eggplant into rounds," Anna said. "Not too thick, but not too thin either. About a half-inch should do it."

I followed her instructions, slicing the eggplant into perfect rounds. Anna then instructed me to brush each round with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and pepper.

"Next, you'll want to bake the eggplant in a hot oven until it's soft and golden brown," Anna said. "It should take about 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the rounds."

As the eggplant baked in the oven, the warm, savory aroma filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When the timer finally beeped, I pulled the baking sheet out of the oven and marveled at the beautiful, golden-brown eggplant rounds. I took a bite, and my taste buds were instantly delighted. The eggplant was tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of seasoning.

I couldn't wait to share this delicious recipe with my family. I knew they would love it just as much as I did. From that day on, Simple Baked Eggplant became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I've made this recipe countless times, each time adding my own twist or variation. Sometimes I'll sprinkle the eggplant with fresh herbs before baking, or top it with a dollop of creamy goat cheese. No matter how I prepare it, Simple Baked Eggplant always brings me joy.

As I think back on that fateful summer day when I first learned this recipe from Anna, I'm filled with gratitude for her friendship and culinary wisdom. Her simple yet delicious recipe has become a cherished part of my cooking repertoire, one that I will pass down to future generations.

I'm grateful for the connections I've made through food, for the shared joy of cooking and eating with loved ones. And I'm grateful for the humble eggplant, a vegetable that has brought so much delight into my life.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Simple Baked Eggplant, I raise my fork in a silent toast to my dear friend Anna, who taught me that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most delicious. And I savor each bite, knowing that this dish will always hold a special place in my heart.

Categories

| Balsamic Vinegar Recipes | Basil Recipes | Better Digestion Recipes | Eggplant Recipes | Red Bell Pepper Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients