Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant
Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant is a flavorful and healthy dish. This recipe brings together the rich, creamy texture of eggplant with tangy lemon and aromatic garlic. It’s a versatile addition to any meal, perfect as a side dish or even a main vegetarian course.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant is simple and rewarding. You get to enjoy a delicious dish packed with Mediterranean flavors. It is also a great way to include more vegetables in your diet. Plus, roasting the eggplant brings out its natural sweetness, making it a delightful treat for everyone at the table.
How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1⁄2-inch rounds or half-moons
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried oregano.
- Add the sliced eggplant to the bowl and toss until well coated.
- Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and golden brown.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant
You can serve Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant warm or at room temperature. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats or fish. You can also enjoy it with rice or couscous. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving can give it an extra pop of flavor.
How to Store Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant
If you have leftovers, let the eggplant cool down completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant
- Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly for even cooking.
- You can add a pinch of salt to the eggplant slices before roasting to enhance the flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice based on your taste preference.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, try adding cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the mix before roasting. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese on top after roasting for a tasty Mediterranean twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, you can use zucchini or bell peppers in addition to or instead of eggplant.
2. Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This dish is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and roast the eggplant ahead of time. Just reheat before serving for the best texture.
Try making this simple and delicious Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant and enjoy the bright flavors of the Mediterranean in your home!
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Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A flavorful and healthy dish featuring roasted eggplant, tangy lemon, and aromatic garlic. Perfect as a side or main vegetarian course.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried oregano.
- Add the sliced eggplant to the bowl and toss until well coated.
- Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until the eggplant is tender and golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: eggplant, Mediterranean, vegan, roasted vegetables, healthy side dish