10 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Eggplant

April 14, 2024

Courtesy of A Simple Palate

Eggplant is a culinary chameleon, seamlessly blending into dishes from various cuisines from Mediterranean to Asian, and able to change textures from crisp to smooth and creamy. Plus, it comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, many of which you can interchange depending on what type is most readily available.

It’s also good for you. Purple eggplants are rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants that help fight inflammation, lower blood pressure, reduce heart disease risk, and slow the growth of some types of cancer.

Plus, eggplant is inexpensive and easy to find at supermarkets and farmers markets. Grab one on your next shopping trip and whip up one of these delicious, healthy recipes.

1. Eggplant Parmesan

Courtesy of Love and Lemons

No roundup of eggplant recipes would be complete without eggplant parm. We love this one because there’s no frying involved, and no excess oil. Dip eggplant slices in egg, then in a mix of panko, parmesan, and herbs, and bake. Layer with tomato sauce and cheese, bake again, and get ready for a hearty vegetarian meal everyone will love.

Try this recipe from Love and Lemons.

2. Baked Eggplant Rollatini

Courtesy of A Simple Palate

Love stuffed pasta? Give baked eggplant rollatini a try for a lower-carb option. Instead of noodles, roll up a ricotta-garlic-basil mixture in baked eggplant slices, cover with sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and bake. You won’t miss the pasta for a second.

Try this recipe from A Simple Palate.

3. Caponata

Courtesy of The Mediterranean Dish

This Sicilian eggplant dish is a Mediterranean diet staple, packed with sweet-sour-salty elements like tomatoes, olives, capers, and raisins. Serve it warm or cold as a side dish, spoon it over noodles, fold it into an omelet, or offer it alongside a cheese plate. Bonus: It gets better as it sits in the fridge and the flavors have time to develop.

Try this recipe from The Mediterranean Dish.

4. Moroccan Baked Eggplant with Beef

Courtesy of Recipe Tin Eats

Here’s a fun, comforting, and hearty dish that’s great for meal prep. In this Moroccan-inspired recipe you top tender roasted eggplant halves with a richly spiced meat mixture, then finish with a dollop of creamy yogurt and a sprinkle of toasty pine nuts. Use ground beef or lamb, depending on your preference.

Try this recipe from Recipe Tin Eats.

5. Eggplant Pizza

Courtesy of Feel Good Foodie

Who needs pizza crust when you have eggplant slices? Top baked eggplant slices with sauce, mozzarella, and your favorite pizza toppings, and bake for a gluten-free, low-carb, and veggie-packed pizza alternative. This could also make a fun appetizer for a party.

Try this recipe from Feel Good Foodie.

6. Grilled Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

Courtesy of Every Last Bite

Grilling eggplant brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor, which pairs beautifully with a simple garlic and herb sauce. If you’re ready to fire up the grill (or indoor grill pan), this easy dish makes a fantastic side, or chop the slices and toss into a salad.

Try this recipe from Every Last Bite.

7. Roasted Eggplant and Chickpea Salad

Courtesy of Well Plated

Top tender roasted eggplant halves with a salad made from peppery arugula, crispy chickpeas, and a simple vinaigrette, and you get an elegant side dish or vegetarian main that’s full of flavor. Try feta instead of blue cheese to keep it on the Mediterranean side.

Try this recipe from Well Plated.

8. Baba Ganoush

Courtesy of Cookie and Kate

Move over, hummus: This creamy, smoky Middle Eastern dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, and spices is ready for its moment in the spotlight. Serve it with sliced veggies, spoon it into a pita with your favorite sandwich fillings, or serve it as part of an appetizer plate with tzatziki, tabbouleh, olives, roasted peppers, and any other Mediterranean items you like.

Try this recipe from Cookie and Kate.

9. Vegan Eggplant Lentil Curry

Courtesy of Short Girl Tall Order

Look no further for a protein-rich, plant-based dinner that’s sure to satisfy. Lentils pair nicely with the eggplant, and both are cooked, along with onion, tomatoes, and jalapeno, in a mix of curry powder, coconut milk, lime juice, and broth. Serve it with rice and top with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Try this recipe from Short Girl Tall Order.

10. Eggplant, Broccoli, and Bok Choy in Garlic Sauce

Courtesy of Healthy Gluten-Free Family

Put down the takeout menu: Here’s a veggie-rich meal starring eggplant, in a luscious Asian-inspired garlic sauce, that you can have on the table in 30 minutes flat. Have it as is, or add chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Rice (or cauliflower rice) makes a perfect accompaniment.

Try this recipe from Healthy Gluten-Free Family.