How to Make Warm Eggplant Salad - A Step-by-Step Guide

Eggplants are such a versatile vegetable, and one of my favorite ways to enjoy them is in a warm eggplant salad. This dish is perfect for enjoying during the cooler months when you want something comforting and satisfying. It’s also a great way to use up any eggplants from your garden or local farmer’s market. The combination of flavors and textures in this salad is simply irresistible, and it’s a great side dish for any meal.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is...

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Ingredients

  • 1 pound long Chinese eggplants
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
  • salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium red bell pepper
  • 2 teaspoons white sugar
  • ½ tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 large clove garlic, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 5 mins
  • Total Time: 20 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Trim eggplants and cut in half if very long. Cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices. Sprinkle a little Italian seasoning and salt on both sides of each slice.
  • Preheat a griddle or heavy pan over high heat. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over eggplant slices and cook until slightly charred, about 30 seconds per side.
  • Core bell pepper and cut into thin slices. Season with salt. Use the same griddle or pan to cook until slightly charred, about 30 seconds per side.
  • Prepare dressing by mixing remaining olive oil, sugar, balsamic vinegar, and garlic in a small bowl. Stir in remaining Italian seasoning.
  • Layer 1/2 of the eggplant slices on a plate. Dot with cream cheese. Cover with bell peppers and remaining cream cheese. Top with remaining eggplant. Drizzle dressing over the salad. Garnish with cilantro. Serve warm, mixing right before serving.
  • Nutrition

    135 cal.

    • Total Fat: 10g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 8mg
    • Sodium: 26mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 12g
    • Dietary Fiber: 5g
    • Total Sugars: 6g
    • Protein: 2g
    • Vitamin C: 42mg
    • Calcium: 33mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 355mg