Looking for a simple yet delicious way to enjoy eggplant? This baked garlic eggplant recipe offers a savory and aromatic treat, combining the soft, roasted texture of eggplant with the punchy flavor of garlic and herbs. Topped with a tangy, creamy garlic sauce, this dish makes a fantastic side or a light main course. Let’s get started on this irresistible Mediterranean-inspired dish!
Ingredients:
For the Baked Garlic Eggplants:
- 3 eggplants
- Fresh parsley (to taste), chopped
- Salt (to taste)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1-2 teaspoons Italian herbs (such as oregano, thyme, and basil)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Fresh dill (to taste), chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wash and slice the eggplants in half lengthwise. Using a knife, score the flesh of the eggplants in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin. This helps the seasoning penetrate better.
- Season the Eggplants:
- Place the eggplants cut side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle each half with olive oil, ensuring the oil seeps into the scored cuts.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, ground black pepper, and Italian herbs evenly over the eggplant halves. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the cuts to distribute the flavor throughout the eggplant.
- Roast the eggplants in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they become tender and golden brown on top.
- Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- While the eggplants are roasting, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, olive oil, dried garlic powder, paprika, and fresh dill. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more dill, paprika, or garlic powder if needed. Set the sauce aside.
- Serve the Baked Eggplants:
- Once the eggplants are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish the eggplants with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve the roasted garlic eggplants hot with a generous drizzle of the creamy garlic sauce on top or on the side for dipping.
Conclusion:
These baked garlic eggplants are a fantastic way to showcase the delicious flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The tender, roasted eggplant, infused with garlic and herbs, pairs perfectly with the tangy and creamy garlic sauce. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on their own, these eggplants are sure to be a hit at any meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a simple yet flavorful dish that’s healthy and satisfying!