Oven Roasted Eggplant, or aubergine, is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural sweetness and creamy texture of this versatile vegetable. When roasted, the eggplant transforms into a deliciously tender and slightly caramelized delight, making it a perfect side dish, salad topping, or a star ingredient in a variety of recipes. With just a few spices and a drizzle of olive oil, this dish can elevate any meal, offering a comforting yet sophisticated appeal that is hard to resist.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This oven roasted eggplant recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, the flavor is simply outstanding; roasting brings out the eggplant’s innate sweetness while adding a smoky depth that enhances any dish. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, with minimal hands-on time involved, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Additionally, it fits seamlessly into a vegetarian, vegan, or Mediterranean diet, providing a hearty addition to salads, grain bowls, or as a main dish paired with grains or legumes.
Tips and Tricks
- Salting the Eggplant: For extra flavor and to reduce bitterness, consider salting your eggplant slices before cooking. Simply sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry. This step helps draw out excess moisture and enhances the texture.
- Uniform Slices: Cut your eggplant into evenly sized slices or cubes to ensure consistent cooking. Aim for about ½ inch thick slices for optimal roasting.
- High Heat: Roasting at a high temperature (around 425°F) helps achieve that perfect caramelization, so don’t be shy to crank up the oven.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to play around with spices beyond the classic olive oil and salt. Garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate the flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep the eggplant ahead of time by slicing and salting it, then storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You may also roast the eggplant in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving to regain that crispy texture.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Roasted Eggplant: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the olive oil for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Twist: Toss the roasted eggplant with diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a delicious Mediterranean salad.
- Asian-Inspired: Marinate the eggplant in soy sauce and sesame oil before roasting and top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
How to Serve
Serve your oven roasted eggplant as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or layer it on top of a bed of quinoa or couscous for a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or tahini sauce can also elevate the presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the eggplant beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing gin and tonic with a slice of lemon is a great match. For sides, consider serving warm pita bread or a light Greek salad. For dessert, a simple fruit sorbet or a slice of lemon cake would provide a delightful contrast to the savory eggplant.
How to Store
Leftover roasted eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, place the cooled roasted eggplant in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for about 3 months. To reheat, simply place it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl for seasoning
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. For a nut-free version, just ensure any additional toppings or dressings used are free from nuts. You can easily make it dairy-free by skipping cheese or using a vegan cheese alternative.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, pair your eggplant with fresh summer tomatoes and basil for a vibrant dish. In the fall, consider adding roasted garlic or using sage and thyme for a cozy autumn flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen eggplant?: While fresh eggplant is best for roasting, frozen eggplant can be used but may have a different texture.
- How long does it take to roast eggplant?: Typically, roasting takes about 25-30 minutes at 425°F, but check for doneness, as oven temperatures can vary.
- What can I substitute for olive oil?: Avocado oil or melted coconut oil can work as alternatives, but olive oil offers the best flavor for this recipe.
How To Make Oven Roasted Eggplant (aubergine)
Oven Roasted Eggplant (aubergine)
Oven Roasted Eggplant, or aubergine, is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural sweetness and creamy texture of this versatile vegetable.
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant (aubergine)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika, or any favorite spices
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and dry the eggplant, then cut it into ½ inch slices or cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the eggplant pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.
- Spread the eggplant in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 159Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 0mgSodium 532mgCarbohydrates 17gFiber 5gSugar 6gProtein 2g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Oven roasted eggplant is not only a simple and delicious dish but also a versatile one that can complement a wide range of meals. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread, this recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the humble eggplant. Happy cooking!
