7 Delicious Dinner Recipes Using Eggplant

Eggplant is a versatile ingredient that works in various cuisines, from Italian to Asian. Its rich texture and ability to absorb flavours make it a dinner favourite. Here are seven recipes that will transform eggplant into a delicious and satisfying meal.

Eggplant Parmesan

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dip eggplant slices in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Fry the slices in olive oil until golden.
4. Layer the fried eggplant, marinara sauce, and cheese in a baking dish.
5. Repeat layers and finish with mozzarella on top.
6. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Eggplant Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, cubed
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 bell pepper, sliced

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a wok over high heat.
2. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and eggplant for 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and sauces; cook for another 3 minutes.
4. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.

Eggplant Lasagna

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grill or bake eggplant slices until tender.
3. Layer eggplant, ricotta, marinara sauce, and cheese in a baking dish.
4. Repeat layers and bake for 30 minutes.

Stuffed Eggplant

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, halved lengthwise
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Scoop out eggplant flesh and dice it.
2. Mix the diced eggplant with quinoa, tomatoes, feta, and parsley.
3. Stuff the mixture into the eggplant shells.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Baba Ganoush Pasta

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, roasted
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb pasta of choice

Instructions:

1. Blend roasted eggplant, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil into a smooth sauce.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. Toss the pasta with the eggplant sauce and serve.

Eggplant Curry

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 can diced tomatoes

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in oil.
2. Add eggplant and curry powder, and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk and tomatoes.
4. Simmer for 15 minutes and serve with rice or naan.

Grilled Eggplant Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and grill until tender.
2. Toss grilled eggplant with tomatoes, feta, and balsamic vinegar.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Eggplant’s versatility makes it a great addition to your dinner rotation. Whether baked, fried, or grilled, these recipes highlight eggplant’s unique flavor and texture. Try one tonight and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal!