What to Serve with Eggplant?
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways, making it a great addition to many meals. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a main course, or a snack, there are plenty of options to serve with eggplant. In this article, we’ll explore some popular ideas for what to serve with eggplant, including main courses, sides, and appetizers.
Main Courses
Eggplant is a great addition to many main courses, and can be paired with a variety of meats and sauces. Here are some popular main course options to serve with eggplant:
- Grilled Chicken or Steak: Slice the eggplant into thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender. Serve with grilled chicken or steak, and a side of roasted vegetables.
- Vegetarian Lasagna: Layer sliced eggplant with ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
- Eggplant Parmesan: Slice the eggplant into thick rounds, bread and fry until crispy, and top with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Serve with a side of pasta or garlic bread.
Sides
Eggplant can also be served as a side dish, adding flavor and texture to a variety of meals. Here are some popular side dish options to serve with eggplant:
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss sliced eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender. Serve with roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, brush with olive oil, and grill until crispy. Serve with garlic bread and a side of marinara sauce.
- Quinoa Salad: Cook quinoa and let it cool. Toss with chopped eggplant, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a vinaigrette dressing for a healthy and refreshing side dish.
Appetizers
Eggplant can also be used to make delicious appetizers, perfect for parties or special occasions. Here are some popular appetizer options to serve with eggplant:
- Eggplant Fritters: Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, bread and fry until crispy, and serve with a side of marinara sauce.
- Grilled Eggplant Bruschetta: Slice the eggplant into thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender. Top with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil, and serve on toasted bread.
- Stuffed Eggplant: Slice the eggplant in half lengthwise, scoop out the insides, and fill with a mixture of ricotta cheese, parsley, and garlic. Bake until tender and serve with a side of marinara sauce.
International Inspiration
Eggplant is a popular ingredient in many international cuisines, and can be used to make a variety of dishes inspired by different cultures. Here are some international inspiration options to serve with eggplant:
- Japanese-Style Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, brush with soy sauce and sesame oil, and grill until tender. Serve with a side of steamed rice and miso soup.
- Indian-Style Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into thick rounds, marinate in a mixture of yogurt, cumin, and coriander, and grill until tender. Serve with a side of basmati rice and naan bread.
- Greek-Style Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender. Serve with a side of feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to keep in mind when serving eggplant:
- Choose the right variety: There are many varieties of eggplant, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Choose a variety that suits your recipe and personal taste.
- Don’t overcook: Eggplant can become mushy and overcooked if it’s cooked for too long. Cook it until it’s tender, but still retains some crunch.
- Add flavor with herbs and spices: Eggplant can be bland if it’s not seasoned properly. Add flavor with herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, and cumin.
- Try different cooking methods: Eggplant can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, or fried. Try different cooking methods to find your favorite way to prepare it.
Conclusion
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from main courses to appetizers. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a main course, or a snack, there are plenty of options to serve with eggplant. By following the tips and variations outlined in this article, you can create delicious and flavorful dishes that showcase the best of eggplant.