Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is a delightful culinary adventure that transports your taste buds to sun-drenched shores with one bite. This easy Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant recipe combines the robust flavors of oregano, smoked paprika, and olive oil, creating an irresistibly savory and golden dish. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this homemade Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is perfect for any occasion, offering simplicity and gourmet appeal in one pan. In under an hour, you’ll have a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying, resonating with the authentic essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
- Best way to make Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant at home with minimal ingredients.
- Only 40 minutes from start to finish – perfect for busy weeknights.
- Simple Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant for beginners, no culinary degrees needed!
- Healthy vegetarian option that’s both filling and low in calories.
- Versatile dish: serve as a main course, side, or incorporate into other recipes.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
- 2 medium eggplants
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
For a vegan twist, simply omit the feta cheese. If you prefer gluten-free options, check the spices to ensure no cross-contamination.
How to Make Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant – Step by Step
Prepping the Eggplant
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature sets the foundation for perfect roasting.
- Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch rounds. Consistent thickness allows them to cook evenly. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Creating the Flavorful Coating
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, oregano, and smoked paprika. This mixture infuses the eggplant with rich Mediterranean flavors.
Roasting the Eggplant
- Brush the eggplant slices on both sides with the olive oil mixture. Ensure they are well-coated for optimal taste.
- Roast the eggplants in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even cooking. For an extra crispy texture, bake for five more minutes.
Serving the Dish
- Once roasted, remove the eggplants from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley and feta cheese if using. The parsley adds a burst of color and freshness while the feta offers a tangy contrast.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side. The citrus from the lemon enhances the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Best Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant Recipe – Easy and Delicious
Pro Tips for Making the Best Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
- Can I make Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the eggplants and the spice mix in advance. Store them separately and combine them just before roasting.
- What is the secret to the best Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant? The key lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients and ensuring the eggplant is evenly coated with the olive oil mixture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mix for a subtle kick.
- Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can try using shallots for a milder flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
The best way to serve Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is paired with a light, refreshing side like a Greek salad or roasted red pepper hummus. Consider serving this dish alongside our Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad for a complete meal. This roasted eggplant also makes for a fantastic topping on flatbreads or stuffed into pita pockets with a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Nutritional Information for Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
This nutritional snapshot makes it clear why Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is a smart choice for health-conscious eaters. The high fiber content helps you feel full, while low calories make it ideal for weight management.
Storage & Leftovers
How long does Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant last in the fridge? Properly stored in an airtight container, it will last up to three days. For freezing, slice the roasted eggplant and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month.
To reheat, place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until warmed through.
4 FAQs for Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
- Can I freeze Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant?
- Absolutely! Freeze individual slices on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag to prevent sticking.
- What can I use instead of smoked paprika in Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant?
- Try using a dash of cumin or regular paprika if smoked paprika is not available.
- What type of eggplant is best for roasting?
- Globe eggplants are ideal due to their size and fleshy consistency, making them perfect for roasting.
- Can I grill the eggplant instead of roasting?
- Yes, grilling imparts an added smoky flavor. Slice and season the eggplant as directed, then grill over medium heat.
Related Recipes for Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
- Yes, grilling imparts an added smoky flavor. Slice and season the eggplant as directed, then grill over medium heat.
- Can I freeze Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant?
Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is a delicious dish that showcases the rich flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch rounds. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, oregano, and smoked paprika.
- Brush the eggplant slices on both sides with the olive oil mixture.
- Roast the eggplants in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and tender.
- Once roasted, remove the eggplants from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley and feta cheese if using.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture.
- This dish can be served as a side or a main course.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Mediterranean, Roasted Eggplant, Healthy Recipes, Vegetarian, Eggplant, Cooking At Home, Tasty, Delicious, Foodie, Recipe Share