Are you looking for some delicious and easy-to-make eggplant recipes? Look no further! Eggplants are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from savory to sweet. In this article, we’ll explore 18 simple and quick eggplant recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic Italian-inspired dishes like eggplant parmesan casserole and lasagna with ricotta cheese, to international flavors like spicy stir-fry with soy sauce and curry, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of our favorite eggplant recipes, including garlic roasted eggplant with herbs, grilled eggplant with balsamic glaze, and stuffed eggplant with ground turkey. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a more elaborate dish to impress your guests, there’s something on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
So why not get started in the kitchen today? With these 18 simple and delicious eggplant recipes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an eggplant expert!
Garlic Roasted Eggplant with Herbs
Elevate your meal with this simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of eggplant, paired with a punch of garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the eggplant slices to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the garlic mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and lightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley and basil.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
A classic Italian-inspired dish with a twist, this easy casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip eggplant slices in breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle marinara sauce over the eggplant, leaving a small border around each slice.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Eggplant with Balsamic Glaze
Eggplants grilled to perfection and drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze make for a mouthwatering summer side dish or main course. This simple recipe highlights the sweet and smoky flavors of grilled eggplant, elevated by the tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Brush grilled eggplant with the warm balsamic glaze during the last minute of grilling.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Eggplant Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
This spicy eggplant stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the natural sweetness of eggplant with the savory flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to your favorite Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the eggplant slices and cook until they start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggplant Caponata with Olives and Capers
A classic Sicilian relish, Eggplant Caponata is a flavorful condiment that’s perfect for serving alongside pasta, rice, or as a topping for bread. This recipe combines the richness of eggplant with the savory flavors of olives and capers.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped eggplant and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the sliced olives, capers, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add the red wine vinegar and stir to combine.
5. Serve the Caponata at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella and Tomatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of eggplant, creaminess of mozzarella, and sweetness of tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick slices.
3. In a bowl, toss the eggplant slices with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant, then top each slice with a tomato slice and a mozzarella cheese slice.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry combines the richness of eggplant with the nutty taste of chickpeas, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and easy cooking steps, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the eggplant for 5 minutes on each side or until tender.
3. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chickpeas and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stuffed Eggplant with Ground Turkey
This recipe combines the tender flesh of eggplant with the savory flavor of ground turkey, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create a cavity.
3. In a bowl, mix together ground turkey, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each eggplant with the turkey mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
6. Serve with tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese
Transform ordinary lasagna into a flavorful Italian-inspired masterpiece by substituting tender eggplant slices for traditional noodles. This unique twist yields a rich, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 lb ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, cooked ground beef or sausage, onion, garlic, and crushed tomatoes. Mix well.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the ricotta mixture. Arrange roasted eggplant slices on top. Repeat for 2-3 layers, ending with a layer of cheese.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Eggplant Pizza Bites with Marinara
Transform classic pizza into bite-sized eggplant bites infused with the flavors of Italy. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate pan, warm the marinara sauce over medium heat.
4. Place an eggplant slice on the prepared baking sheet, followed by a spoonful of warmed marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant Ratatouille with Fresh Basil
This classic Provençal dish is a flavorful and colorful representation of summer’s bounty, featuring tender eggplant, sweet bell peppers, and fragrant fresh basil. A perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Olive oil, for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add eggplant and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add bell peppers, garlic, onion, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked eggplant back into the skillet and stir to coat with tomato mixture.
6. Transfer the ratatouille to a baking dish and top with chopped fresh basil.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Air Fryer Eggplant Fries with Aioli
Elevate your snack game with this crispy and flavorful air fryer eggplant fries recipe, paired with a creamy aioli dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Aioli (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: Additional seasonings of your choice (e.g., dried oregano, red pepper flakes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with aioli and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggplant and Zucchini Pasta Bake
This flavorful pasta bake combines roasted eggplant, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with al dente spaghetti and a blend of melted cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
3. Toss eggplant and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, roasted vegetables, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Eggplant Shakshuka with Poached Eggs
Savor the flavors of North Africa with this vibrant eggplant dish, where tender vegetables meet rich spices and creamy eggs. Perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 poached eggs
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Arrange eggplant slices on top of the spice mixture in a single layer.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until eggplant is tender and lightly browned.
6. Create wells for the poached eggs and gently place them into the skillet.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Eggplant and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This simple yet flavorful stir-fry combines the tender texture of eggplant with the earthy taste of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and cook the mushrooms until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return the eggplant to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to combine flavors.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant Rollatini with Spinach Filling
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet impressive eggplant rollatini recipe, filled with a vibrant spinach mixture. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. Place a spoonful of spinach filling onto the center of each eggplant slice, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll up the eggplant slices and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant and Tomato Salad with Feta
A refreshing summer salad that combines the smoky flavor of eggplant with the sweetness of tomatoes, all tied together with a tangy feta cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled eggplant, diced tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Drizzle with red wine vinegar and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant Hummus Wrap with Tahini
A Mediterranean twist on the classic hummus wrap, this recipe adds roasted eggplant for a rich and creamy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the eggplant slices for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Add roasted eggplant to the blender and blend until well combined.
4. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Warm the tortilla for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Spread the hummus mixture onto the warmed tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Garnish with parsley or cilantro leaves. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and easy eggplant recipes to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further! This collection of 18 simple and delicious eggplant recipes will satisfy your cravings. From classic dishes like Eggplant Parmesan Casserole and Garlic Roasted Eggplant with Herbs, to international flavors like Spicy Eggplant Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce and Eggplant Curry, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, you’ll find creative twists on traditional recipes, such as Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella and Tomatoes and Air Fryer Eggplant Fries with Aioli. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to mix things up, these eggplant recipes are sure to impress!
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