Description
This Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant recipe features tender, golden brown eggplant slices infused with aromatic spices like garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Roasted to perfection in the oven with olive oil, this flavorful dish is a healthy and vibrant addition to any meal, garnished with fresh parsley for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch rounds
Seasonings & Oil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds and place them in a large bowl, creating the base for seasoning.
- Add the Olive Oil and Spices: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the eggplant slices, then sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over them to build a complex Mediterranean flavor.
- Toss to Coat: Gently toss the eggplant slices until all pieces are evenly coated with the olive oil and spice mixture, ensuring every slice is flavorful.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, giving each slice space to roast evenly.
- Roast in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the eggplant for about 20 minutes until tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through if desired for even cooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the roasted eggplants from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh and colorful garnish before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can flip the eggplant slices halfway through roasting.
- If the eggplants vary in size, adjust roasting time accordingly to avoid undercooking or burning.
- This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or as a side to grilled meats and fish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reduce bitterness, you can salt the raw eggplant slices and let them sit for 20 minutes, then pat dry before seasoning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean roasted eggplant, baked eggplant recipe, healthy roasted vegetables, vegan side dish, garlic paprika eggplant
