Marinated Eggplant Recipe

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

30 minutes

Additional Time

2 hours (marinating)

Total Time

2 hours 45 minutes

Servings

4-6

Ingredients

1. 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
2. 1/2 cup olive oil
3. 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
4. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
7. 1 teaspoon dried basil
8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
9. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10. 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Steps to Cook

1. Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Let them sit for 30 minutes to allow the excess moisture to be absorbed.

2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.

3. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer in a shallow baking dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the eggplant, ensuring all the slices are coated evenly.

4. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or seal the plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours, turning the eggplant slices occasionally to ensure even marinating.

5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

6. Remove the marinated eggplant slices from the refrigerator and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

7. Bake the eggplant slices for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned on the edges.

8. Flip the eggplant slices and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and have a nice caramelized texture.

9. Remove the baked eggplant slices from the oven and let them cool slightly.

10. Arrange the marinated and baked eggplant slices on a serving platter or plate. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Cook’s Note

• The marinating time is crucial for the eggplant to absorb the flavors of the marinade. You can marinate the eggplant for up to 24 hours, but a minimum of 2 hours is recommended.
• Adjust the baking time as needed, depending on the thickness of your eggplant slices. The goal is to have them tender and lightly caramelized on the edges.
• Serve the marinated eggplant slices as a side dish, appetizer, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal. They pair well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or as a topping for bruschetta.
• For a variation, you can add other herbs or spices to the marinade, such as thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes, to suit your taste preferences.

---