15 Aubergine Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds
Aubergines, also known as eggplants, are a versatile vegetable that can add rich flavor and texture to many dishes. In this article, you will discover a variety of delicious aubergine recipes that are perfect for any meal. From hearty casseroles to light salads, there’s an aubergine dish that can satisfy everyone in your family.
Whether you are looking to try something new or want to enjoy a classic, cooking with aubergines is a great choice. These recipes will inspire you to use this ingredient in creative ways, making your meals not only tastier but also more interesting.
1) Scruffy Aubergine Lasagne
Scruffy aubergine lasagne is a comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. You’ll love how the soft, roasted aubergine adds a hearty texture that replaces traditional pasta layers.
Start by pricking the aubergines and halving them. Cook them with onions and water in a casserole pan. Cover and let them steam until soft.
Next, layer the aubergine with rich tomato sauce and cheese for a delicious finish. It’s a simple and fun recipe that will surely make you smile!
Ingredients
- 2 large aubergines
- 1 onion
- 250ml water
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 200g cheese (your choice)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Cooking Instructions
- Prick the aubergines all over with a fork and halve them.
- Place them in a casserole pan with onions and water over medium heat.
- Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
- Remove and layer the aubergine with canned tomatoes and cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
2) Grilled Aubergine with Peanut Spice Crust
Grilled aubergine with a peanut spice crust is a delicious dish that brings a mix of flavors and textures. You’ll love how the crispy crust and soft aubergine balance each other perfectly.
To start, prepare the peanut and spice mixture. Toast poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and desiccated coconut in a pan for a few minutes. Next, combine these with the remaining spices for a flavorful crust.
Slice your aubergine and sprinkle the cut sides with salt and spices. This helps to enhance its flavor. Once marinated, coat the pieces with the peanut mixture and grill them until golden brown.
Ingredients
- 2 aubergines
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons desiccated coconut
- Salt, to taste
- Chilli powder, to taste
- Turmeric, to taste
- Other spices as desired
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your grill to high (about 200°C/400°F).
- Toast the poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and coconut in a pan.
- Mix these with the other spices.
- Slice the aubergines and sprinkle with salt and spices.
- Coat the slices with the peanut mixture.
- Grill the aubergines until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
3) Aubergine Parmigiana
Aubergine Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that layers fried aubergines with rich tomato sauce and cheesy goodness. It’s packed with flavor and is perfect for a comforting meal.
Start by slicing your aubergines and salting them to remove excess moisture. This step helps achieve a nice texture when cooked. Once ready, fry them until golden brown.
In an ovenproof dish, alternate layers of aubergine, tomato sauce, grated Parmesan, and mozzarella. Repeat these layers until you use all your ingredients, finishing with cheese on top.
Bake the dish in an oven preheated to 450°F (230°C) until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
- 2 large aubergines
- Salt
- Olive oil
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sliced mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Slice aubergines and salt them for 20 minutes.
- Rinse and pat dry the aubergines.
- Fry the aubergines in olive oil until golden.
- In a dish, layer aubergine, tomato sauce, parmesan, and mozzarella.
- Repeat layers, ending with sauce and cheese on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly.
4) Eggplant Casserole
Eggplant casserole is a comforting dish that brings great flavor to your table. It’s simple to make and perfect for any meal.
Start by prepping your eggplant; you can peel and cube it to help reduce bitterness.
For this recipe, you will sauté the eggplant with onions until they are soft. Then, mix in sausage, breadcrumbs, and a beaten egg for binding. Layer everything in a baking dish, and top with cheese for a delicious finish.
Bake your casserole at 350°F (180°C) for about 30-40 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. Enjoy it fresh from the oven!
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant, cubed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 lb sausage, cooked
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup cheese, shredded
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Sauté eggplant and onion until soft.
- Mix in cooked sausage, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
- Spread the mixture in a baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes.
5) Aubergine Burgers
Aubergine burgers are a tasty and healthy option for lunch or dinner. You can enjoy them as a vegetarian meal or serve them at your next barbecue. Their rich flavor pairs well with a variety of toppings.
To make your aubergine burgers, start by cutting aubergines into thick slices. Season them with salt and then grill or fry until they are soft and golden. You can add toppings like cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
These burgers are simple to customize. You can create a spicy sauce or add your favorite vegetables to make them even more delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 large aubergine
- Olive oil
- Sea salt
- Mozzarella cheese
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Burger buns
Cooking Instructions
- Cut the aubergine into thick slices.
- Season with sea salt and drizzle with olive oil.
- Grill or fry the slices until golden (about 3-5 minutes per side).
- Add cheese and sun-dried tomatoes to half the slices.
- Fold the slices to create the burger.
- Serve on toasted burger buns with fresh basil.
6) Roasted Aubergine Salad
Roasted aubergine salad is a delightful dish that brings out the rich flavor of aubergines. You can enjoy this salad warm or chilled.
Start by roasting the aubergine until it’s tender and golden brown. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetable.
You can add other vegetables like red peppers and onions for extra taste. Toss them all together with olive oil, salt, and spices to elevate the flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 aubergines (eggplants), chopped
- 2 red peppers, chopped
- 2 small red onions, cut into wedges
- 6 garlic cloves, skin left on
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and chili flakes to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chopped aubergines, red peppers, and onions on a baking sheet.
- Add the garlic cloves and drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle salt and chili flakes over the vegetables.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway.
- Serve warm or let cool for a refreshing salad.
7) Aubergine and Chickpea Stew
Aubergine and chickpea stew is hearty and full of flavor. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, and it’s easy to make. You can enjoy it alone or share it with friends.
To make this dish, you will need ingredients like aubergine, chickpeas, and spices. The warm spices create a comforting aroma as the stew cooks.
Once ready, serve it with bread or over rice. This stew keeps well, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 aubergine, diced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic. Sauté until soft.
- Stir in the diced aubergine and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and spices. Mix well.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
8) Aubergine Pasta
Aubergine pasta is a delicious meal that highlights the rich flavors of eggplant. You can make it with various sauces, like a fresh tomato sauce or a creamy blend.
Try Pasta alla Norma, a classic Italian dish featuring pasta, eggplant, and tomato sauce. It’s comforting and satisfying. For a twist, add a few anchovy fillets if you’re not vegetarian.
You can also explore different recipes from Jamie Oliver or RecipeTin Eats to find your favorite version.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta
- 1 medium aubergine (eggplant), diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic.
- Add diced aubergine and cook until soft.
- Stir in tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine pasta with the sauce and enjoy!
9) Baba Ganoush
Baba Ganoush is a delicious dip made from roasted aubergine, also known as eggplant. Its creamy texture and smoky flavor make it a favorite among many.
To make Baba Ganoush, you first need to roast the eggplant. Prick the skin with a fork, then char it on a grill or under the broiler for about 25-30 minutes until it’s soft and blackened.
Next, scoop the flesh into a bowl and mix in tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and season with salt to taste.
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your grill or broiler to high.
- Prick the eggplant with a fork.
- Roast the eggplant for 25-30 minutes until blackened.
- Let it cool, then scoop out the flesh.
- Combine eggplant with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl.
- Blend until smooth and add salt to taste.
10) Stuffed Aubergine with Quinoa
Stuffed aubergine with quinoa is a delicious and healthy dish. This recipe is perfect for a light meal or a tasty side. The combination of quinoa and vegetables gives it great flavor and texture.
To start, you will need to prepare the aubergines. Cutting them in half and scooping out the center will create a perfect pocket for the filling.
Mix cooked quinoa with your favorite veggies and spices for a tasty stuffing. Then, bake the stuffed aubergines in the oven until they are tender and golden.
This dish is not only filling but also gluten-free and low in calories.
Ingredients
- 2 aubergines
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, grated
- Spices (like salt, pepper, and paprika)
- Olive oil
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the aubergines in half and scoop out the insides.
- Cook quinoa according to package directions.
- Sauté onion, bell pepper, and carrot in olive oil.
- Mix the sautéed veggies with cooked quinoa and spices.
- Stuff the aubergine halves with the quinoa mixture.
- Bake for 25 minutes until tender.
11) Smoky Aubergine Dip
Smoky aubergine dip, also known as baba ganoush, is a tasty and healthy choice. You can enjoy it as a dip, spread, or side dish. The rich, smoky flavor comes from roasting aubergines until they are soft and charred.
To make this dip, you will need a few simple ingredients. The preparation is quick and straightforward, making it perfect for gatherings or a healthy snack at home.
Serve it with pita bread or fresh veggies for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 2 medium aubergines
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prick the aubergines with a fork and place them on a baking sheet.
- Roast the aubergines for about 30-35 minutes until soft.
- Let them cool, then scoop out the flesh into a bowl.
- Add tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Enjoy!
12) Aubergine and Lentil Curry
Aubergine and lentil curry is a flavorful and healthy dish that’s simple to make. The aubergine, also known as eggplant, adds a rich texture to the curry while lentils provide protein and fiber.
You can start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan. Once they’re soft, add chopped tomatoes, spices, and red lentils. Then, bring everything to a boil.
After that, toss in cubed aubergine and let it simmer until the lentils are tender. Serve the curry with rice or naan for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large aubergine, cut into cubes
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan.
- Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add tomatoes and spices; cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- Add aubergine, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
13) Eggplant Fries
Eggplant fries are a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional fries. You can enjoy them as a snack or a side dish.
To make eggplant fries, start by cutting an eggplant into sticks. It’s best to choose a firm eggplant for a better texture.
Sprinkle salt on the pieces and let them sit to remove excess moisture. Then, coat the eggplant sticks in flour, dip them in egg, and then cover them with breadcrumbs.
You can also season them with your favorite spices, like paprika or garlic powder. Bake the fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper
- Optional spices (paprika, garlic powder)
Cooking Instructions
- Cut the eggplant into fry-like sticks.
- Sprinkle salt on the eggplant and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Coat the eggplant in flour.
- Dip in beaten eggs.
- Roll in breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
14) Aubergine and Tomato Bake
Aubergine and Tomato Bake is a delicious and comforting dish. It combines layers of tender aubergines, fresh tomatoes, and cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner.
Start by slicing the aubergines and sprinkling them with salt to draw out moisture. While they sit, prepare a rich tomato sauce by sautéing onions and garlic.
Layer the aubergines with the sauce and cheese in a baking dish. Then, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 2 large aubergines
- 4 medium tomatoes
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- Cheese (mozzarella or feta)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the aubergines and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes.
- Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Rinse and dry the aubergine slices.
- Layer the aubergine, tomato, and cheese in a baking dish.
- Pour the sautéed onion and garlic over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
15) Miso Glazed Aubergine
Miso glazed aubergine, also known as Nasu Dengaku, is a flavorful dish that is simple to prepare. The rich miso glaze adds a delicious sweetness to the tender aubergine. This can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side.
To make it, you start by cutting the aubergine in half and scoring the flesh. Then, you apply your miso glaze and bake until it’s perfectly caramelized.
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. It’s a great way to enjoy aubergine if you’re looking for something tasty and easy.
Ingredients
- 2 large aubergines
- 3 tablespoons of miso paste
- 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Salt to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 355°F (180°C).
- Cut the aubergines in half lengthwise and score the flesh.
- Mix miso paste, honey, and sesame oil.
- Spread the glaze on the cut sides of the aubergines.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.