As we transition from summer, many of us aim to realign with our health ambitions. For some, this means hitting the gym more often or adopting a vegetarian routine during the week. Personally, I find it tough to feel full on just salads, so I turn to hearty vegetables like eggplant to keep me satisfied. With that in mind, here are 22 scrumptious eggplant recipes to whip up this weekend.
This versatile veggie serves as a fantastic base for countless dishes, ensuring you won’t run out of lunch or dinner ideas anytime soon. It complements various cuisines and can replace carbs effortlessly. From stuffed eggplants to pasta substitutes, the possibilities are endless.
Eggplants are freshest from July to October, so visit your local market or grocery store this weekend and try one of our favorite eggplant recipes below. There’s something truly rewarding about enjoying in-season produce, making it the perfect time to indulge in eggplant.
Keep scrolling for 22 flavorful eggplant recipes:
Roasted Eggplant Fan
Why we love it: This delightful dish showcases roasted eggplant in a way that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. The pairing of roasted eggplant with tomatoes and feta creates an unbeatable Mediterranean flavor. Remember to salt generously and let it drain for an hour before cooking.
Hero ingredient: Feta cheese enhances everything!
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad With Za’atar & Fried Eggplant
Why we love it: This salad combines crunchy veggies, fresh herbs, and a zesty garlic-lime dressing. Hearty and satisfying, it can be enjoyed as a standalone vegan meal or a side dish paired with chicken or fish.
Hero ingredient: Za’atar, a mix of wild thyme and toasted sesame seeds, adds depth and a hint of earthiness.
Stuffed & Roasted Eggplants
Why we love it: These roasted eggplants are perfect for stuffing with your favorite seasonal ingredients like tomatoes and pomegranates. Adding cheese elevates the dish.
Hero ingredient: Figs make a delightful topping.
Get the recipe here.
Japanese Eggplant With Chicken & Thai Basil
Why we love it: This dish bursts with flavor thanks to fragrant herbs like Thai basil. It’s a quick meal that can be customized for meat-eaters or vegetarians, and it tastes as good as it looks.
Hero ingredient: Japanese or Chinese eggplants are ideal.
Grilled Eggplant Tacos
Why we love it: A fantastic low-carb option, these tacos satisfy cravings while utilizing seasonal veggies instead of tortillas. They’re versatile, perfect for dinner, breakfast, or as an appetizer.
Hero ingredient: The bean and corn salsa is a must-try.
Roasted Eggplant Dip
Why we love it: No food processor needed! Roasting eggplant at high heat makes it soft and charred, ready for dipping. Just add spices and garlic for a flavorful treat.
Hero ingredient: Excellent lavash or bread for dipping.
Quinoa Stuffed Eggplant With Tahini Sauce
Why we love it: This easy dinner comes together in about 30 minutes. Stuffed with quinoa, tomatoes, and mushrooms, it’s bursting with flavor and topped with tahini sauce for extra richness.
Hero ingredient: Canned tomatoes simplify the cooking process.
Middle Eastern Eggplant Wrap
Why we love it: This wrap can be kept vegan or enhanced with feta for creaminess. It features lemony kale slaw and tahini sauce, making it a delicious and healthy choice for any meal.
Hero ingredient: Tahini sauce is a game changer.
Mini Eggplant Pizzas
Why we love it: These mini pizzas are perfect for those craving pizza while sticking to a low-carb or gluten-free diet. Load up on your favorite toppings for a quick and healthy meal.
Hero ingredient: Melted, gooey cheese is a must.
Baba Ganoush
Why we love it: Enjoy this homemade baba ganoush for a fresh, flavorful summer snack. It's easy to prepare and has a creamy, smoky taste.
Hero ingredient: Tahini adds nutty richness.
Thai Basil Eggplant
Why we love it: This restaurant-worthy dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible to various dietary preferences.
Hero ingredient: Hoisin sauce adds essential flavor.
Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Why we love it: This lighter version of eggplant parmesan features baked panko, layered with marinara, melty cheese, and fresh herbs, creating a decadent yet healthier dish.
Hero ingredient: Crispy panko breading enhances the texture.
Caprese Eggplant “Toast”
Why we love it: These versatile recipes are perfect for any meal of the day, making them a quick healthy option for busy schedules.
Hero ingredient: Prosciutto enhances any dish.
Brussel Sprout & Eggplant Buddha Bowl
Why we love it: This nourishing Buddha bowl is a warm alternative to cold salads, packed with veggies for a hearty and healthy meal. It can easily be made vegan by omitting eggs.
Hero ingredient: Sunflower seeds provide a satisfying crunch.
Baked Eggplant Fries With Goat Cheese Dip
Why we love it: These gluten-free baked “fries” are a tasty treat, golden on the outside and creamy inside. They make an excellent appetizer or side dish.
Hero ingredient: Creamy goat cheese dip complements the fries beautifully.
Chickpea & Eggplant Curry
Why we love it: This curry makes great use of summer produce, with roasted eggplant enhancing the flavor and texture. It's vegan and gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Hero ingredient: Chickpeas boost protein content for a filling dish.
Why we love it: It's ratatouille season! This classic French dish is perfect for late summer, comforting and healthy. The addition of polenta gives it a unique twist.
Hero ingredient: Creamy polenta adds richness.
Ginger Miso Eggplant Noodles
Why we love it: This dish creatively uses random veggies from your crisper for a delicious meal. With crispy tofu, eggplant, and mushrooms, it’s a light and healthy weeknight option.
Hero ingredient: Gluten-free noodles provide nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant With Pomegranates & Tahini
Why we love it: This lovely dish celebrates seasonal eggplant with rich Eastern Mediterranean flavors. The eggplant can be roasted or fried for a delicious treat.
Hero ingredient: Warm pita bread enhances the experience.
Roasted Eggplant With Spinach, Quinoa, & Feta
Why we love it: This healthy, Mediterranean-style dish is vegetarian and gluten-free, packed with fiber and protein. If this doesn't make you love eggplant, what will?
Hero ingredient: Feta adds a perfect finishing touch.
Eggplant Fritters With Mushroom & Herbs
Why we love it: If you enjoy fritters, this simple recipe is a must-try. Using just eggplant pulp, you can prepare stuffed eggplants in advance!
Hero ingredient: Mushrooms add an earthy flavor and texture.
