Eggplant is often overlooked, but it can be the star of a variety of dishes. Whether you’re roasting, grilling, or baking it, this veggie has the ability to soak up flavors and add something unique to your meals. From hearty mains to satisfying sides, eggplant offers more versatility than you might expect. These recipes will help you rethink how you use eggplant in your kitchen.
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
This vegetarian version of moussaka layers roasted eggplant with spiced lentils and a creamy bechamel sauce. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and offers a comforting combination of savory, hearty, and tangy flavors. Eggplant brings a rich, slightly sweet taste that balances well with the earthy lentils. The bechamel on top adds a creamy finish that makes this dish feel indulgent without meat.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Eggplant Grilled Cheese With Green Hot Sauce
This grilled cheese takes a twist with roasted eggplant slices adding depth to the classic sandwich. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a crispy sandwich filled with melted cheese and a spicy kick from green hot sauce. The eggplant adds a tender, smoky layer, complementing the sharp cheese. It’s a fun and spicy way to rethink grilled cheese.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Grilled Cheese With Green Hot Sauce
Roasted Eggplant Soup
This roasted eggplant soup is a smooth and savory dish that brings out the eggplant’s natural smokiness. It takes about 45 minutes to make, combining roasted eggplant, garlic, and onions for a comforting meal. The flavors are rich yet light, perfect for a cozy night. The roasted eggplant gives it an earthy, satisfying taste in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Eggplant Soup
Eggplant Tomato Stacks
These eggplant tomato stacks feature roasted eggplant slices layered with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. In just under 30 minutes, you get a light, yet flavorful dish where the eggplant’s mild taste complements the juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese. The flavors are simple, fresh, and perfect for a summer meal. It’s a great vegetarian option for an easy appetizer or side.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Lebanese Baba Ganoush
Lebanese Baba Ganoush blends roasted eggplant with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice for a creamy and smoky dip. It takes about 40 minutes to prepare and delivers a rich, velvety texture with a bright tangy kick from the lemon. The roasted eggplant adds a deep, slightly charred flavor. Perfect for dipping with pita or spreading on sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush
Sabich Sandwich with Eggplant and Potatoes
This Sabich sandwich layers roasted eggplant, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs into a pita for a hearty and flavorful meal. In about 45 minutes, you’ll have a filling dish with savory eggplant, tender potatoes, and a tangy touch from pickles and sauce. The eggplant adds a soft, smoky base that ties the ingredients together. It’s a tasty, vegetarian-friendly sandwich with Middle Eastern flair.
Get the Recipe: Sabich Sandwich with Eggplant and Potatoes
Homemade Balkan Bourekas with Eggplant
These flaky Balkan Bourekas are filled with a savory mixture of roasted eggplant and cheese. Ready in about 1 hour, they offer a satisfying combination of crispy pastry and a rich, creamy filling. The eggplant adds a smoky depth that contrasts nicely with the cheese. These are perfect for a snack or appetizer when you’re in the mood for something unique.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Balkan Bourekas with Eggplant
Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip
Zaalouk is a roasted eggplant dip mixed with tomatoes, garlic, and spices, creating a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy spread. It takes about 50 minutes to make, offering a smooth texture and bold flavor. The roasted eggplant gives it a depth of flavor while the tomatoes add a subtle sweetness. Perfect for dipping bread or serving alongside grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
This baba ghanoush skips the tahini, letting the roasted eggplant’s smoky flavor shine through. In about 40 minutes, you’ll have a dip that’s smooth, garlicky, and full of bold, roasted eggplant taste. It’s lighter than traditional versions but still packed with flavor. Great with veggies or as a spread on sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Eggplant Shakshuka
Eggplant Shakshuka combines tender roasted eggplant with a spicy tomato sauce and poached eggs. It takes about 35 minutes to prepare, and each bite delivers a rich, smoky flavor from the eggplant mixed with the bold tomato sauce. The eggs add a creamy texture that balances the dish perfectly. It’s a filling, vegetarian-friendly meal with a bit of a kick.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Shakshuka
Air Fryer Eggplant
Air fryer eggplant gives you crispy, tender slices without the need for excess oil. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy eggplant that’s crunchy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for a side or snack. The eggplant has a mild, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with any dip. It’s a quick and healthier way to enjoy eggplant with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant
Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe
These eggplant and beef meatballs combine the richness of ground beef with the tender texture of roasted eggplant. Ready in about 40 minutes, the eggplant helps keep the meatballs moist while adding a subtle smoky flavor. The result is a juicy, flavorful meatball with a bit more depth. Perfect served over pasta or as a hearty appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe
Baked Stuffed Eggplant Boats
These baked stuffed eggplant boats are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and cheese. They take about 50 minutes to prepare and offer a hearty, comforting meal with layers of flavor. The eggplant adds a soft, mildly sweet base that soaks up the savory filling. It’s a great way to enjoy eggplant as a main dish.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Eggplant Boats
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant
Crispy air fryer eggplant delivers perfectly crunchy slices with a soft center in under 20 minutes. The air fryer ensures they’re light but crispy, making them a great snack or side dish. The mild eggplant flavor is complemented by the crispy coating, offering a satisfying texture in each bite. Pair it with your favorite dip for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant
This dish stuffs roasted eggplant with tender chicken and melty cheese for a satisfying, protein-packed meal. It takes about 40 minutes to make and combines the savory flavors of roasted chicken, melted cheese, and soft eggplant. The eggplant’s subtle sweetness pairs well with the hearty filling. It’s a cheesy, filling dish perfect for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant