15 Delicious Eggplant Recipes You Need to Try

Eggplant is a versatile veggie that can shine in countless dishes, from savory mains to delicious sides. Whether you’re roasting, grilling, or sautéing, there’s a recipe here to make this underrated gem the star of your meal. Let’s get cooking!

Grilled Eggplant Slices

Grilled eggplant slices are a tasty way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The rich, smoky flavor from grilling pairs perfectly with its creamy texture. This dish is not only easy to make but also works well as a side or a main component in a meal.

To prepare grilled eggplant, you’ll need fresh eggplants, olive oil, salt, pepper, and any herbs you enjoy, like parsley or basil. Start by slicing the eggplants into thick rounds. Brushing them with olive oil helps to enhance their flavor and prevent sticking.

Once seasoned, grill the slices for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be tender and have those beautiful grill marks. The result is a deliciously smoky treat that’s both healthy and satisfying. Enjoy them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or toss them into salads for a delightful twist!

Eggplant Rollatini with Ricotta

Eggplant rollatini is a fun dish that combines tender eggplant with a creamy ricotta filling. The image shows beautifully rolled slices of eggplant, topped with a rich tomato sauce and sprinkled with cheese. It’s a comforting meal that looks as good as it tastes.

To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like fresh eggplants, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Start by slicing the eggplants thinly and roasting them until they’re soft. Then, mix ricotta with herbs and seasonings for the filling.

Once the eggplant slices are ready, spread the ricotta mixture on each slice and roll them up. Place the rolls in a baking dish, cover them with marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake until bubbly and golden. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Eggplant Parmesan Bake

Eggplant Parmesan Bake is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. The image shows multiple layers of crispy eggplant slices, gooey cheese, and rich tomato sauce, all stacked together. It looks hearty and inviting, making it perfect for a family dinner.

To make this dish, start by slicing the eggplant and breading it. Then, layer the fried eggplant with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Repeat this until you reach the top. A sprinkle of herbs adds freshness. Bake until bubbly and golden.

This recipe is great for using up eggplants and is sure to impress. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!

Eggplant and Chickpea Curry

This eggplant and chickpea curry is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your meal. The rich, red sauce is filled with tender pieces of eggplant and hearty chickpeas, creating a satisfying combination. Each bite offers a lovely blend of spices that elevate the simple ingredients.

To make this dish, you will need eggplant, chickpeas, onion, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices. Start by sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Then add in the eggplant, letting it soften before mixing in the chickpeas and spices. Pour in some tomatoes and simmer until everything melds together beautifully.

Serve this curry with a side of fluffy rice for an easy and filling meal. The freshness of cilantro on top adds a nice touch, brightening up the dish. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or when you want to impress your friends with a homemade meal.

Roasted Eggplant Salad

Roasted eggplant salad is a colorful and tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The image shows perfectly roasted chunks of eggplant, their golden-brown edges contrasting beautifully with vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley. The dish looks inviting and fresh, making it a great choice for a light meal or a side dish.

To make this salad, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Start with one medium-sized eggplant, cut it into cubes. Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized. Add halved cherry tomatoes and a handful of fresh parsley to the mix for extra flavor and color.

Combine everything in a bowl and give it a light toss. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an extra zing. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a delicious addition to your meal!

Spicy Eggplant Stir-Fry

Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a fantastic vegetable full of flavor and texture. In this spicy stir-fry, it takes center stage, mixed with bright peppers and green onions. The vibrant colors in the pan show just how lively this dish can be. The contrast between the deep purple of the eggplant and the bright reds and greens adds visual appeal.

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a kick in their meals. The heat from the peppers complements the soft, creamy texture of the cooked eggplant. You can serve it over rice or noodles, making it a filling and satisfying dish.

To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients: fresh eggplant, bell peppers, green onions, and your choice of spices. Start by chopping everything into bite-sized pieces. Then, sauté the vegetables in a bit of oil until they’re tender. Add soy sauce and chili paste for that spicy punch. Stir until everything is well-coated and sizzling.

This stir-fry is not just easy to prepare; it’s a great way to enjoy eggplant in a fun and flavorful way. So grab your ingredients and get cooking!

Baba Ganoush with Pita Chips

Baba Ganoush is a creamy eggplant dip with a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with crispy pita chips. This dish is a favorite for gatherings and perfect for those who enjoy Mediterranean cuisine.

To make Baba Ganoush, you’ll need roasted eggplants, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Start by roasting the eggplants until they’re soft and smoky. Once cooled, scoop out the flesh and blend it with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a bit of salt for that extra touch.

Serve the Baba Ganoush in a bowl and surround it with warm pita chips. The crispy texture of the chips complements the smooth dip perfectly. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs as a garnish for an aesthetic touch.

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great choice for a snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, Baba Ganoush with pita chips is sure to please everyone.

Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplant

Mediterranean stuffed eggplant is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures. In the image, you can see eggplants beautifully halved and filled with a colorful mixture.

These eggplants are stuffed with a savory blend featuring grains, fresh tomatoes, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. The rich purple skin of the eggplant contrasts nicely with the bright colors of the filling. A sprinkle of cilantro adds a fresh touch, making it not just tasty, but also visually appealing.

Preparing this dish is simple. Start by roasting the eggplants until they are tender. Meanwhile, cook your choice of grains, like quinoa or couscous, then mix in diced tomatoes, olives, and feta. Stuff the eggplants and give them a quick bake to meld the flavors. Serve warm for a satisfying meal!

Zucchini and Eggplant Gratin

This Zucchini and Eggplant Gratin is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any meal. The layers of tender zucchini and eggplant create a beautiful presentation, while the golden breadcrumb topping adds just the right crunch.

To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like fresh zucchini, eggplant, breadcrumbs, cheese, and some spices. Start by slicing the vegetables evenly for uniform cooking. Layer them in a baking dish and sprinkle with your choice of cheese and herbs.

Once assembled, pop it in the oven until the top is crispy and golden. The warm, cheesy, and savory flavors come together beautifully. Serve it as a side or even as a main dish. This gratin will surely impress everyone at the dinner table!

Eggplant Fritters with Yogurt Dip

Eggplant fritters are a tasty way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The image shows a beautifully presented plate of golden-brown fritters, each with a hint of char and small cubes of cheese on top. They’re accompanied by a creamy yogurt dip that looks inviting and fresh.

To make these delightful fritters, you will need a few simple ingredients. Start with 1 large eggplant, diced, and mix it with flour, spices, and herbs to create a batter. This mixture is then fried until crispy and golden. The yogurt dip, made with plain yogurt and a touch of garlic, adds a cool contrast to the warm fritters.

The combination of flavors is wonderful. Each bite of the fritters offers a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful inside. The yogurt dip complements them perfectly, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Whether as an appetizer or a snack, eggplant fritters with yogurt dip are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and provide a fun, tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals.

Eggplant Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These eggplant tacos are a tasty twist on a classic dish. The eggplant is grilled to perfection, offering a smoky flavor that pairs well with fresh toppings. Each taco is packed with chunks of tender eggplant, which creates a delightful texture.

The avocado salsa adds a creamy element, featuring diced avocado, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro. It brings a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the eggplant. A squeeze of lime over the top ties everything together, enhancing the flavors.

To make these tacos, you’ll need ingredients like eggplant, tortillas, avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime. Start by grilling the eggplant until it’s soft. While it’s cooking, prepare the salsa by mixing the avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice. Once everything is ready, assemble your tacos and enjoy!

Eggplant and Tomato Pasta

Eggplant and tomato pasta is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The combination of tender, roasted eggplant and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a colorful plate that’s both inviting and satisfying.

To make this dish, you’ll need some spaghetti, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that extra touch. Start by roasting the eggplant until it’s soft and slightly caramelized. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti until al dente and toss it with sautéed garlic and fresh tomatoes.

Once everything is mixed, add in the roasted eggplant and finish with fresh basil. The aroma of the basil and the sweetness of the tomatoes will make your kitchen smell amazing. Serve it warm with a little grated cheese on top for a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Eggplant Moussaka Layered Dish

Eggplant moussaka is a delightful dish that layers flavors and textures beautifully. The image shows a baked moussaka, featuring perfectly arranged slices of eggplant over a savory meat mixture. The layers are topped with a creamy sauce that adds richness to every bite.

This dish typically includes ground meat, such as lamb or beef, cooked with spices and tomatoes. The eggplant is often sliced and roasted, which enhances its natural sweetness and brings out a lovely depth of flavor. Once baked, the top layer gets that lovely golden hue, promising a crispy texture.

Making moussaka is a bit of a process but totally worth it. Start by preparing your ingredients: eggplants, ground meat, tomatoes, onions, and spices. As you layer these into your baking dish, take a moment to appreciate the colors and aromas. Each layer adds to the overall experience, making it a dish that’s perfect for gatherings.

When it comes to the creamy topping, a mix of yogurt or béchamel sauce can elevate the dish. As it bakes, the sauce melds with the other ingredients, creating a comforting meal. Serve it warm, and you’ll be rewarded with a hearty and satisfying dish that is sure to impress.

Spaghetti Squash with Eggplant Ragu

This dish features a hearty eggplant ragu served over spaghetti squash, offering a delightful twist on classic pasta. The vibrant tomato sauce is rich and comforting, making it perfect for any meal.

The eggplant adds a nice texture and absorbs flavors beautifully. This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like spaghetti squash, eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, and spices. Start by roasting the spaghetti squash until tender, then sauté the eggplant with garlic and tomatoes to create the ragu.

Mix the ragu with the spaghetti squash, and finish with some fresh herbs for a pop of color. This meal is satisfying, healthy, and easy to prepare!

Eggplant Caponata on Crostini

Eggplant caponata on crostini is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavors to your table. The image shows golden-brown crostini topped with a colorful mixture of sautéed eggplant, tomatoes, and aromatic basil. Each bite is a combination of soft and crunchy textures, making it a perfect appetizer.

This recipe is simple but impressive. Start by dicing eggplant, onions, and tomatoes. Sauté them in olive oil with garlic until they are tender. Season with vinegar and a touch of sugar for a hint of sweetness. Serve this mixture on crispy crostini, garnished with fresh basil leaves. It’s a tasty way to enjoy eggplant and is sure to wow your guests!