Roasted Eggplant Salad
Create our hearty and vibrant Roasted Eggplant Salad, bursting with a delightful variety of flavors and textures. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requires minimal effort, and yet produces amazingly impressive results. The beautiful combination of different ingredients creates a visually appealing dish that is sure to attract everyone’s attention. Once you have prepared the salad, serve it elegantly on a beautifully decorated platter. Every bite of this delicious salad is a delicious journey through a blend of amazing flavors, making it a perfect addition to any meal or as a healthy treat on its own.
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants, chopped
- 2 red peppers, chopped
- 2 small red onions, peeled and cut into 8 wedges
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled
- 6 tbsp olive oil
- 200g cherry tomatoes
- 400g can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3 tbsp pomegranate molasses
- 1 lemon, juiced
- ½ tsp honey
- 2 tbsp capers
- 60g rocket leaves
- 4 tbsp sunflower or pumpkin seeds
Preparation steps
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6.
- Scatter the eggplant, peppers, onion wedges and garlic cloves into a large roasting pan.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle 4 tablespoons olive oil over it.
- Mix well with your hands to make sure everything is coated in the oil.
- Put in the oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and add the cherry tomatoes and chickpeas.
- Mix to combine.
- Put it back in the oven for 20 minutes until everything is toasted.
- Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
- Meanwhile, prepare the dressing by mixing 2 tablespoons of pomegranate molasses with lemon juice, honey, capers, the remaining oil and a good pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place the cooled eggplant mixture in a serving bowl along with the arugula and dressing.
- Stir gently to combine everything.
- Sprinkle the sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top.
- Drizzle the remaining pomegranate molasses over the top.
Nutritional Information
kcal | fat | saturates | carbohydrates | Sugar | fiber | protein | Salt |
304 | 18g | 3g | 23g | 0g | 9g | 8g | 0.5g |
Equipment and tools
- dulcimer
- Knife
- sheet
- mixing bowl
- Garlic press
- Juicer
- tablespoon
Allergen information
This roasted eggplant salad recipe contains the following allergens:
- Sesame (from tahini)
Storage and leftovers
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the salad cool completely before storing. To reheat, simply place the salad in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until warmed through.
Health Benefits of Roasted Eggplant Salad
Roasted eggplant salad is not only a delicious and refreshing dish but also offers numerous health benefits. This dish is packed with nutrients from various ingredients, making it an excellent addition to a healthy and balanced diet. Let’s explore the health benefits of each ingredient:
eggplant
Aubergines, also known as eggplant, are low in calories and high in fiber. They contain antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation. In addition, eggplants are a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium and manganese, which support overall health and well-being.
Red pepper
Red peppers are rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin. They also contain vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and helps maintain healthy bones, teeth and skin. Red peppers are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a good choice for weight management.
Red onions
Red onions are full of compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They are an excellent source of fiber and contain flavonoids, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease. Red onions can also support healthy digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Garlic
Garlic is known for its powerful medicinal properties. It contains a compound called allicin, which has been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects. Garlic may help boost the immune system, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Cherry tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C as well as several antioxidants. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and protect against chronic diseases. Cherry tomatoes also contain lycopene, a pigment that gives them their red color, which has been linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are an excellent plant-based source of protein and fiber. They are low in fat and rich in essential nutrients including iron, magnesium and folic acid. Including chickpeas in your diet can help control your weight, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Pomegranate molasses
Pomegranate molasses adds a tangy and sweet flavor to the roasted eggplant salad. Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Consuming pomegranate may also help lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and improve overall antioxidant status.
lemon juice
Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin. It also aids in digestion and detoxification, supports weight loss, and may help prevent kidney stones. Lemon juice gives the salad a refreshing and tangy taste.
Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that offers various health benefits. It contains antioxidants, enzymes and phytonutrients that can strengthen the immune system, relieve coughs and sore throats, and promote wound healing. Honey adds a touch of sweetness to the roasted eggplant salad.
Capers
Capers are low in calories and give the dish a special flavor. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, iron and calcium. Capers also contain antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. Adding capers to salad increases its taste and nutritional value.
arugula
Arugula leaves, also known as arugula, are a nutrient-rich green. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and K and contain folic acid, calcium and magnesium. Arugula leaves are also rich in nitrates, which have been linked to improved exercise performance and cardiovascular health. Adding arugula leaves to the salad provides a peppery and refreshing taste.
Sunflower or pumpkin seeds
Sunflower and pumpkin seeds are full of essential nutrients. They are rich in healthy fats, proteins, fiber, vitamins and minerals. These seeds provide a good amount of antioxidants, including vitamin E, and can help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and support brain function. Including sunflower or pumpkin seeds in the salad adds a delicious crunch and boosts the nutritional content.
Overall, roasted eggplant salad is a nutrient-dense dish that can contribute to a balanced and healthy diet. It provides a wide range of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber that are essential for supporting various body functions and maintaining overall well-being. So next time you make this salad, enjoy its deliciousness while reaping its health benefits!