Description
Za’atar Aubergine and Courgette Steaks are a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish that elevates simple vegetables into a satisfying and restaurant-worthy main course. The aromatic za’atar seasoning and sweet citrus marinade create caramelization and depth, perfect for plant-based meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large courgette, cut lengthways into 1cm (1/2in) thick ‘steaks’
- 1 large aubergine, cut lengthways into 1cm (1/2in) thick ‘steaks’
- 3–4 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp za’atar seasoning
- 2 oranges, zested and juiced (approximately 200ml)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey if not vegan)
- 1 tbsp tamari (or soy sauce if not gluten-free)
- Handful flat-leaf parsley, leaves torn
- Green salad, to serve
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/425°F/gas mark 7. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
- Slice your aubergine and courgette lengthways into ‘steaks’ approximately 1cm (½ inch) thick.
- Lay the vegetable slices on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Pat the vegetable slices dry with paper towels, removing the salt and moisture.
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, za’atar, orange zest, orange juice, maple syrup, and tamari to create your marinade.
- Place your vegetable steaks in a shallow dish and pour over two-thirds of the marinade, turning to coat both sides. Reserve the remaining marinade for serving.
- Arrange the marinated vegetable steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking tray.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then flip the steaks and roast for another 10-15 minutes until tender and caramelized at the edges.
- Once cooked, drizzle with the reserved marinade and scatter with torn parsley leaves.
Notes
- Don’t have za’atar? Make your own by combining 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, 1 tbsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tbsp sumac, and ½ tsp salt.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze in individual portions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: N/A