Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Turkish Eggplant Aubergine Salad, a refreshing and smoky vegetable dish that's perfect as a side or a light meal. Roasted eggplants form the heart of this recipe, their tender, charred flesh creating a luscious base for a medley of finely chopped tomatoes, green pepper, red onion, and garlic. Finished with a bright drizzle of lemon juice, rich olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this salad is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Seasoned with just the right amount of spices, including an optional hint of red chili flakes for a touch of heat, this healthy, gluten-free dish is ideal for serving with warm bread or alongside grilled meats and kebabs. Quick to prepare and packed with bold, earthy flavors, this Turkish classic is a must-try for any fan of Mediterranean cuisine.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pierce the skin of each eggplant several times with a fork, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast the eggplants in the oven for 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the skins are charred and the flesh is soft.
While the eggplants roast, finely chop the tomatoes, green pepper, and red onion. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
When the eggplants are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Carefully peel off the charred skin of the eggplants and transfer the soft flesh to a chopping board. Chop it roughly or mash it with a fork, depending on your desired texture.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted eggplant, chopped tomatoes, green pepper, red onion, and minced garlic.
Drizzle the mixture with lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using).
Chop the parsley finely and add it to the salad, stirring everything together until well-combined.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve at room temperature or chilled with warm bread or as a side dish to grilled meats or kebabs.
Calories |
875 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 59.0 g | 76% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.2 g | 46% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2403 mg | 104% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 85.7 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 35.0 g | 125% | |
| Total Sugars | 47.2 g | ||
| Protein | 14.1 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 173 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 4.6 mg | 26% | |
| Potassium | 3136 mg | 67% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.