Elevate your meal prep with this flavorful Whole30 Braised Eggplant recipe, a wholesome and hearty dish packed with bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Tender cubes of eggplant are slow-simmered in a rich tomato and basil sauce, infused with fragrant garlic, sweet balsamic vinegar, and a hint of caramelized onion. Ready in about an hour, this one-skillet recipe is not only Whole30-compliant but also vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it a versatile option for a variety of diets. Perfect as a stand-alone entrΓ©e or a nourishing side, serve this dish alongside cauliflower rice or your favorite protein for a complete, healthy meal. Discover the simplicity and comfort of homemade braised eggplant with this easy, nutritious recipe!
Start by washing and trimming the ends off the eggplants. Cut them into 1-inch cubes.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Dice the onion and add it to the skillet. SautΓ© the onion for about 5 minutes or until it becomes translucent.
Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet. SautΓ© for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, letting it caramelize slightly.
Add the crushed tomatoes and water to the skillet, mixing well to combine.
Add in the eggplant cubes, stirring to coat them in the tomato mixture.
Chop the basil and add it to the skillet along with the balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the skillet and let the eggplant braise for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
Taste, and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired before serving.
Calories |
608 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.5 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2446 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 81.3 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.7 g | 99% | |
| Total Sugars | 42.9 g | ||
| Protein | 14.0 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 236 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 6.7 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 2913 mg | 62% | |
*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.