10 Eggplant Recipes That Will Blow Your Mind

I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

You may not have tried cooking with eggplant, or maybe you’re looking to spice up your usual dishes. Eggplant is a super versatile vegetable that can be used in so many delicious ways.

Looking to elevate your kitchen game? Eggplant recipes can range from simple weeknight dinners to impressive dishes for special occasions. From grilling to roasting, the possibilities are endless and super tasty.

1) Eggplant Parmesan

Imagine biting into crispy, golden eggplant slices topped with gooey cheese. That’s Eggplant Parmesan for you!

Start by salting your eggplant slices. This draws out moisture and prevents sogginess.

Dip each slice in beaten egg, then coat them with a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Lay the slices on a greased baking sheet and bake until crispy.

Layer the baked eggplant with tomato sauce and mozzarella in a dish. Top with more cheese.

Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden.

Enjoy your delicious Eggplant Parmesan creation!

2) Baba Ghanoush

Get ready for a flavor explosion! Baba Ghanoush is a creamy eggplant dip that you’ll love.

Start by roasting eggplants. You can use an oven or a grill. Roast until they’re super tender and a bit charred.

Once roasted, let them cool. Scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Time to add some flavor!

Mix in tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes or sumac.

Mash everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Chill it in the fridge for a while.

Serve with pita bread or veggies. Enjoy your delicious baba ghanoush!

3) Eggplant Rollatini

Eggplant Rollatini is a must-try! It’s cheesy, saucy, and perfect for any meal. First, bake your eggplant slices until soft and golden.

For the filling, mix ricotta, Parmesan, egg, fresh basil, and minced garlic. Spread marinara sauce on the baking dish’s bottom.

Spoon the ricotta mixture onto each eggplant slice and roll them up. Place them seam-side down in the dish, cover with more marinara sauce, and bake until bubbly.

Enjoy your delicious Eggplant Rollatini with a side of garlic bread!

4) Stuffed Eggplant

Stuffed eggplant is a fantastic dish that combines flavors and textures in a delicious way. It’s perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s super versatile!

Start by preheating your oven to the right temperature. Some recipes recommend 350°F, while others suggest 400°F. Choose one based on your preference.

Cut each eggplant in half lengthwise. Use a paring knife to carve out the flesh, leaving about a half-inch border. Scoop out the insides with a spoon, creating “boats.”

Chop the eggplant flesh into bite-size pieces. Then, cook it in a skillet with some onion, garlic, and spices like oregano and black pepper. This makes a flavorful filling.

Place the eggplant halves on a baking sheet, flesh side up. Fill them with the cooked mixture. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and parsley on top for extra yumminess.

Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until the eggplants are tender and the topping is golden. Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, savory delight!

5) Eggplant Moussaka

Eggplant Moussaka is a delicious Greek dish that’s perfect for dinner. It’s like a cozy casserole with layers of eggplant, meat sauce, and creamy bechamel.

First, you need to slice the eggplant and brush it with olive oil. Broil until golden brown.

Next, make the meat sauce. Brown some ground beef or lamb with onions and garlic. Add spices like oregano and cinnamon. Pour in a bit of wine and tomatoes. Let it simmer.

Layer the slices of eggplant and meat sauce in a baking dish. Top with a thick layer of bechamel sauce. Bake until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors.

6) Grilled Eggplant Salad

Love eggplants? You’re going to adore this Grilled Eggplant Salad.

Start by slicing your eggplant into thin rounds. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Grill these slices over medium-high heat until they’re golden brown on each side. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.

Next, chop up some fresh veggies like peppers, tomatoes, and onions.

Mix all these vibrant ingredients in a bowl.

For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and some chili flakes.

Drizzle the dressing over your salad and toss to combine.

It’s fresh, flavorful, and perfect for any summer meal!

7) Eggplant Caponata

Ready for a taste of Sicily? Try making Eggplant Caponata!

First, you need to salt the eggplant. Sprinkle kosher salt on diced eggplant and let it sit for 30 minutes. This removes bitterness and makes it tender.

Next, heat some olive oil in a large skillet. Add onions, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until softened and flavorful.

Don’t forget the capers, olives, and raisins. These add a sweet and tangy punch. Mix them in and let the ingredients blend together.

Serve your caponata at room temperature. This dish can be a side, a topping, or even a main course. Enjoy!

8) Eggplant Curry

Imagine a creamy, spicy curry with tender eggplant chunks soaking in all those rich flavors. Sounds good, right? Lucky for you, making eggplant curry is easier than you might think!

Start by heating up some olive oil in a large skillet. Throw in chopped onion and fry until they get a bit of color. Add grated garlic and ginger to the mix. Now, your kitchen should already be smelling delicious.

Turn down the heat and add your spices. Think curry powder, cumin, ground coriander, red pepper flakes, turmeric, and black pepper. This combo will give your curry a deep, complex flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Next, get your eggplant ready. Slice it, toss it with olive oil and a pinch of salt, then lay it out on a baking sheet. Broil until the pieces are nicely browned. This step adds a smoky depth to the dish.

Once the eggplant is cooked, mix it into the skillet with your spiced onions and garlic. Stir everything together, making sure the eggplant is well coated with the spices.

Pour in a can of coconut milk and undrained diced tomatoes. Let the whole thing simmer gently, covered, for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the eggplant to get perfectly tender.

Serve your eggplant curry over a bed of fluffy rice or warm naan bread. Enjoy every bite of this comforting, flavor-packed dish!

9) Eggplant Stir-Fry

Eggplant stir-fry is a quick and easy dish you can whip up in no time. You get tender eggplant pieces, cooked with savory sauces, and mixed with other delicious ingredients.

Start by cutting the eggplant into bite-sized pieces. Toss them into a hot pan with some oil, and let them brown. This helps to give the eggplant a nice, deep flavor.

Next, add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms. Stir everything around for a few minutes until they start to soften.

Now, it’s time to add the sauce. A mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of hoisin or plum sauce works wonders. Pour it over the eggplant and veggies, and give everything a good stir.

For a bit of protein, you can add chicken, shrimp, or even tofu. Cook these until they’re done, and mix everything together.

Finish off with some fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. These add a nice, fresh taste to the dish. Serve your eggplant stir-fry over rice or noodles, and you have a tasty meal ready to go!

10) Eggplant Lasagna

Get ready to fall in love with eggplant lasagna! It’s a fantastic twist on the classic dish that your taste buds will adore.

First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Next, take your eggplant slices, brush them with olive oil, and roast them until they’re tender. This should take about 20-25 minutes.

While the eggplant is roasting, make a delicious filling. You can use a mix of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and your favorite herbs.

Layer the roasted eggplant, the cheese filling, and some tasty tomato sauce in a baking dish. Repeat until you run out of ingredients.

Bake everything until it’s bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

The Health Benefits of Eggplant

Eggplants are not only tasty but also pack a lot of nutrients. Here’s why you should add them to your meals:

Rich in Nutrients

Eggplants are low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They’re a great source of vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as niacin, magnesium, and potassium.

Good for Your Brain

Eggplants contain phytonutrients that protect your brain cells. They help improve memory and cognitive function, keeping your mind sharp.

Supports Heart Health

The fiber, potassium, and vitamin C in eggplants help maintain a healthy heart. They reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol and improving blood circulation.

Helps with Weight Loss

Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, which makes you feel full longer. This can help you manage your weight better.

Promotes Gut Health

The fiber in eggplants supports good digestion. It helps maintain a healthy gut by promoting regular bowel movements and reducing constipation.

Boosts Immunity

Eggplants have antioxidants like nasunin, which protect your body from harmful free radicals. This helps strengthen your immune system.

Manages Blood Sugar

The fiber in eggplants helps regulate blood sugar levels. This is particularly beneficial for people with diabetes.

By adding eggplants to your diet, you’re not just making delicious meals. You’re also doing a lot for your health. Enjoy the many benefits that come with this versatile veggie!

Cooking Tips and Techniques for Perfect Eggplant

Get ready to make your eggplant dishes better than ever! Here’s how to pick, store, and cook eggplants like a pro.

How to Select and Store Eggplant

When choosing eggplants, look for ones that are firm and smooth. Shiny skin is a good sign, and the eggplant should feel heavy for its size. Avoid any with bruises or soft spots.

Keep your eggplants fresh by storing them in a cool, dry place. If you need to store them longer, pop them in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. Don’t leave them there too long, though—use them within a week for the best taste.

Different Ways to Cook Eggplant: Baking, Grilling, and Sautéing

Baking: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Cut the eggplant into ½-inch rounds, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 18 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even browning. They should be tender and golden.

Grilling: Slice the eggplant into thick rounds or long strips. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they have nice grill marks and are tender.

Sautéing: Cut the eggplant into cubes or slices. Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook, stirring often, until it is golden brown and soft, about 10-15 minutes. Salt to taste, and enjoy your perfectly sautéed eggplant!

Pairing Eggplant with Other Ingredients

Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be paired wonderfully with various herbs, spices, and side dishes. Listed below are some specifics on what pairs best with eggplant, giving you ideas to enhance your recipes and make your meals even more delicious!

Herbs and Spices That Complement Eggplant

Eggplant’s mild, spongy texture makes it a great canvas for different flavors.

• Garlic: This is a must! Whether roasted, minced, or powdered, garlic enhances the earthy taste of eggplant.
• Basil: Fresh basil adds a sweet, peppery kick. Perfect in dishes like pasta and pizzas.
• Oregano: Brings in a robust, savory flavor that’s great for Mediterranean and Italian recipes.
• Cumin: Adds a warm, nutty aroma that intensifies eggplant’s flavors, especially in Middle Eastern cuisines.
• Paprika: Sweet or smoked, it lends a rich, deep flavor to grilled or roasted eggplants.

Mixing these spices can elevate an eggplant dish from good to unforgettable!

Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly with Eggplant

Creating the perfect meal means pairing eggplant with side dishes that complement its taste and texture.

• Tomato-based Dishes: Tomato salads or sauces are a classic combo. The acidity of tomatoes balances eggplant’s richness.
• Rice and Grains: Brown rice or quinoa add a nutty texture and absorb flavorful sauces well.
• Cheese: Think creamy feta or tangy goat cheese. These cheeses not only add a burst of flavor but also a nice textural contrast.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions make for a colorful and savory side.
• Pita and Hummus: This Mediterranean duo is not only filling but also delicious with eggplant dishes like baba ganoush.

Pairing these sides with your eggplant dish will guarantee a well-rounded and delightful meal!