21+ Easy and Affordable Aubergine Dishes to Delight Your Table and Impress Your Guests!
Aubergines, also known as eggplants, are the unsung heroes of the vegetable world. Their unique texture and ability to soak up flavors make them a favorite for many home cooks. If you’re looking to impress your guests without breaking the bank, these delightful dishes will surely spark your culinary creativity!
I remember the first time I made a simple aubergine dish for my family. It was a chilly evening, and the warm, roasted flavors filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in to see what was cooking. The smiles on their faces as they took their first bites made it clear that this was a recipe I would return to time and again.
<pThis dish has remained a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. I can whip it up quickly on a busy weeknight or dress it up for a special occasion, and it always impresses. I think people love it because aubergines have this magical ability to absorb flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, there are so many variations, from adding spices to incorporating other vegetables, that it never feels stale.
Quick Overview Before You Start
⏱ Cooking time: 30 minutes
🔥 Difficulty level: Easy
💰 Estimated cost:
🍽 Servings: 4
🎯 Best for: Weeknight dinners and entertaining
Core Ingredients You’ll Want to Get Right
Aubergine. This versatile vegetable serves as the star ingredient, bringing a unique texture and flavor.
Olive oil. A key component for roasting, olive oil enhances the dish with richness and depth.
Garlic. Infusing the dish with fragrant notes, garlic adds a delicious savory element that complements the aubergine perfectly.
Easy Ways to Change It Up
Try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for a tangy twist.
Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Swap out the olive oil for sesame oil to create an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
Mix in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added color and nutrition.
A Few Notes That Actually Help
Be sure to salt the aubergines before cooking to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Experiment with different seasonings, like smoked paprika or cumin, to find your perfect flavor combination.
For a crispy texture, consider broiling the dish for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
These recipes are curated from across the web and around the world, saving you time and offering you better choices for delicious meals that inspire creativity. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
This dish layers crispy fried eggplant with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. The combination of flavors creates a comforting, satisfying meal that’s hard to resist. Baking it gives the eggplant a tender texture while the cheese gets bubbly and golden.
2 large aubergines
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish loved for its hearty flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings and can be made ahead of time, making it a popular choice for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
These vibrant beauties are filled with a savory mixture of grains, vegetables, and spices. Roasting brings out the sweetness in the aubergines while the filling adds a delightful crunch. It’s a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate!
2 medium aubergines
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Stuffed aubergines are versatile and can be customized to fit your taste. They make a wonderful main dish for vegetarians and can also be a great side for meat lovers!
This fragrant curry is a warm hug in a bowl, filled with spices and creamy coconut milk. The aubergine soaks up all the lovely flavors, becoming tender and delicious. It’s a comforting dish that can easily be made in one pot!
1 large aubergine, cubed
1 can coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon turmeric
Olive oil
Salt
Aubergine curry is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to introduce exotic flavors to your dining table. Serve it with rice or naan for a truly delightful meal!
Total Time: red pepper flakes, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, fresh mint.
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This dish features smoky grilled aubergine served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. The combination is refreshing and satisfying, perfect as a starter or side dish. The grilling adds a delightful char that elevates the entire experience.
1 large aubergine, sliced
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Grilled aubergine with garlic yogurt is a crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients in a delightful way. It’s a great addition to any summer barbecue or potluck!
This dish features thin slices of aubergine rolled with a cheesy filling and baked in marinara sauce. It’s like a lasagna, but with aubergine instead of pasta! Each bite is a burst of flavor, creamy and comforting.
2 large aubergines
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups marinara sauce
1 egg
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Eggplant Rollatini is a fantastic way to enjoy a lighter version of traditional Italian dishes. It’s sure to impress your guests with its elegant presentation and delicious flavors.
This hearty stew is a blend of aubergines, tomatoes, and spices, creating a warm and comforting dish. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s perfect for chilly nights when you crave something cozy!
1 large aubergine, diced
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon oregano
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Aubergine and tomato stew is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables. It’s nutritious, filling, and can be served alone or with crusty bread for dipping!
These crispy fritters are made with grated aubergine and spices, then fried until golden brown. They’re light, crispy, and full of flavor, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Pair them with a tangy dip for an extra treat!
1 large aubergine, grated
1 cup flour
2 eggs
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper
Olive oil for frying
Aubergine fritters are perfect for parties or as a tasty addition to a brunch spread. They’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests with their crunch and flavor!
Rating: 4.9 (234 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 5 min.
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This Sicilian dish is a sweet and sour eggplant salad that’s packed with flavor. It’s made with aubergine, tomatoes, olives, and capers, creating a delightful medley of tastes. Serve it as a side dish or on crostini for a stylish appetizer!
1 large aubergine, diced
2 cups tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup green olives, pitted
1/4 cup capers
1 onion, chopped
Olive oil
Vinegar
Salt and pepper
Aubergine caponata is a fantastic dish for gatherings, as it can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature. It’s a great way to showcase the unique flavor of aubergines!
These spicy tacos feature roasted aubergine as the star ingredient, topped with fresh vegetables and a zesty sauce. The smoky flavor of the eggplant pairs perfectly with the crunch of the toppings. They’re a fun twist on traditional tacos!
1 large aubergine, cubed
8 small tortillas
1 red onion, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1 lime, juiced
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Eggplant tacos are not only delicious but also a great way to change up your taco night. They’re easy to prepare and full of flavor, making them a hit with everyone!
This salad features roasted aubergine pieces tossed with fresh greens and a tangy dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. The roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the aubergine, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
1 large aubergine, cubed
4 cups mixed greens
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper
Roasted aubergine salad is perfect for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. It’s colorful, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying!
This twist on traditional hummus uses roasted aubergine to create a creamy, smoky dip. It’s perfect served with pita chips or fresh veggies. The unique flavors make it a standout at any gathering!
1 large aubergine, roasted
1 can chickpeas, drained
2 tablespoons tahini
2 cloves garlic
1 lemon, juiced
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Aubergine hummus is a great way to impress your guests with something a bit different. It’s easy to make and sure to be a hit!
This quick and easy stir-fry combines aubergine with your favorite vegetables and a savory sauce. It’s a colorful, nutritious dish that’s ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
1 large aubergine, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Aubergine stir-fry is versatile and can be customized with whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s a quick meal that packs a punch of flavor!
This creative dish uses slices of roasted aubergine as the base for mini pizzas. Top them with your favorite pizza ingredients for a fun and healthy twist. They’re perfect for appetizers or a light meal!
1 large aubergine, sliced
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup pepperoni (optional)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Eggplant pizza is a fun way to enjoy your favorite flavors without the carbs of traditional pizza. They’re great for parties or a casual dinner with friends!
This hearty bake features layers of aubergine and lentils, topped with a cheesy crust. It’s a filling dish that’s perfect for meatless meals. Each bite is packed with protein and flavor!
1 large aubergine, sliced
1 can lentils, drained
1 cup cheese, shredded
1 cup marinara sauce
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Aubergine and lentil bake is a comforting dish that’s simple to prepare. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based meals without sacrificing flavor!
This pasta dish combines sautéed aubergine and spinach with a light garlic sauce. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying!
1 large aubergine, diced
2 cups spinach
2 cups pasta of choice
2 cloves garlic, minced
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Aubergine and spinach pasta is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. It’s a meal the whole family will love!
This dish features roasted aubergine topped with crumbled feta and fresh herbs. The combination of flavors is refreshing and satisfying. It’s an easy dish that looks impressive on the table!
1 large aubergine, sliced
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like basil or parsley)
Salt and pepper
Aubergine and feta bake is perfect as a side dish or even as a main with a salad. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor!
