Purple Power! 4 Vegetarian Eggplant Recipes for a Tasty Meatless Monday
Whether you call it eggplant or aubergine, you’re likely drowning in this purple summer vegetable and looking for any new and exciting recipe to make with it. We’re in the same boat; we love the flavor of this earthy veg, yet it seems as though everyone always wants to treat it the same way: bread it and fry it! Not very summer friendly, when you want to taste the freshness of the season. These vegetarian eggplant recipes have a lighter touch, perfect for Meatless Monday.
The association between eggplant and Middle Eastern flavors is almost effortless. We love pairing earthy aubergine with a creamy, tangy buttermilk sauce, a touch of za’atar spices, and a smattering of pink pomegranate seeds. Not only is this eggplant recipe flavorful, it’s also positively beautiful on the plate.
Eggplant rollatini image via Shutterstock
Italians won’t be one-upped in the eggplant department! Classic eggplant rollatini is the perfect party food. We like it because it has all the flavor of heartier eggplant parmigiana without the heaviness that’s better saved for a winter day. Rollatini come in perfectly portioned pieces and are easy to make for a crowd.
Grilled eggplant and mozzarella image via Shutterstock
If you are going to grill eggplant, do it like this. These slices of eggplant are grilled to perfection, then slathered with pesto (use your favorite store-bought or homemade version) and sandwiched with fresh mozzarella. Sprinkle the stacks liberally with fresh basil, and listen to your family ooh and ahh.
Photo by Ally-Jane
If you enjoyed Ratatouille, you’ll love our ratatouille. This sliced-and-baked version of the classic French stewed vegetable dish may not be the most traditional, but we agree with Rémi the rat in saying that sometimes classic dishes need an overhaul. This version is lighter and gets an extra kick of flavor with tarragon and smoked paprika. We say oui!
Related on Organic Authority
How to Grill Eggplant Perfectly Every Time
Grilled Eggplant, Tomato and Goat Cheese Recipe [Vegetarian & Gluten Free]
Eggplant with pomegranate image via Shutterstock
