Irresistible Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant Recipe

Sometimes, you take a bite of something so delicious that it feels like a Mediterranean vacation in your mouth. Picture this: tender, roasted eggplant filled with a symphony of flavors from fresh herbs, tangy tomatoes, and creamy feta. creamy cucumber dill dip That’s exactly what you get with stuffed Mediterranean eggplant. It’s like having the Mediterranean sun on your plate, bringing warmth and joy to any meal.

I still remember the first time I tasted stuffed eggplant at a friend’s dinner party. The aroma wafting from the kitchen was intoxicating, making me feel like I’d been transported to a cozy little taverna in Greece. Fast forward to today, and here I am, sharing this amazing recipe with you! Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, stuffed Mediterranean eggplant is sure to steal the show.

Ingredients for Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Medium Eggplants: Look for firm, shiny skin without blemishes to ensure freshness.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and helps roast the eggplant beautifully.
• Ground Beef or Lamb: Use lean meat for stuffing; it provides richness without being overly greasy.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch that no one can resist!

For the Filling:

• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Choose fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang; opt for authentic Greek feta if possible.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings freshness and color to your filling.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggplants

Slice each eggplant in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out some flesh—be careful not to pierce the skin! Set aside the scooped-out flesh for later.

Step 3: Sauté the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat some olive oil. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until they soften and become fragrant—about five minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Meat

Add ground beef or lamb into the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon while cooking until it’s browned all over—about seven minutes will do!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in diced tomatoes (and their juices), reserved eggplant flesh, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley into your meat mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Stuff & Bake

Fill each hollowed-out eggplant half with that glorious mixture! Place them in your prepared baking dish, drizzle with more olive oil if desired, and bake for about 30-35 minutes until they’re tender and beautifully caramelized.

Serve hot out of the oven after transferring them onto plates! They make for an impressive centerpiece while delivering comfort food vibes that everyone will adore. Drizzle with extra olive oil or sprinkle some additional parsley on top before serving for that final touch of flair!

Now that you know how to whip up these delightful stuffed Mediterranean eggplants, I encourage you to gather your ingredients and dive right into this culinary adventure! With every bite packed full of flavor and warmth from my heart (and my kitchen), you’ll be left craving more long after dinner is done!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and preparing the filling while the eggplants roast. Slice the eggplants in half, scoop out some flesh, and bake until tender. Meanwhile, sauté onions, garlic, and spices to blend flavors beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground meat for lentils for a vegetarian option or add feta cheese for an extra tangy kick. You can also mix in your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed Mediterranean eggplant in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop it back in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.

I still remember the first time I made stuffed Mediterranean eggplant; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! It turned a casual dinner into a mini feast filled with laughter and joy.

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant?

To prepare Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant, you will need eggplants, ground meat (beef or lamb), onions, garlic, tomatoes, bell peppers, and a blend of spices such as cumin and paprika. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint add a burst of flavor. You can also use cheese for a creamy topping. This combination creates a delicious filling that complements the eggplant’s natural taste. For more inspiration, check out this perfect grilled lamb chops recipe.

How long does it take to cook Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant?

Cooking Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes in the oven after the preparation phase. First, you’ll need to roast the stuffed eggplants at 375°F (190°C) until they are tender. The exact time may vary depending on your oven and the size of the eggplants used. Always check for doneness before serving to ensure they are perfectly cooked.

Can I make Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant vegetarian by substituting ground meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils or quinoa. You can also add more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the flavor and texture of the stuffing. This variation retains all the deliciousness while catering to vegetarian diets.

What can I serve with Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant?

Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple Greek salad featuring cucumbers and feta cheese for freshness. watermelon salad with whipped feta Additionally, a side of rice or couscous enhances the meal’s heartiness. For an extra touch, drizzle some tahini sauce over the dish for added richness and flavor.

Conclusion for Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant:

In summary, Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. By using fresh herbs and spices, you can create a filling that perfectly complements the tender eggplant. zesty lemon herb potato salad Whether you opt for traditional meat fillings or choose a vegetarian version, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Serve it alongside refreshing sides for a complete meal that everyone will love!

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Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant

Print Recipe

Stuffed Mediterranean Eggplant is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean. Tender roasted eggplant halves are generously filled with a savory mixture of lean ground meat, aromatic herbs, and creamy feta cheese. This recipe is not just delicious but also versatile, allowing you to tailor the filling to your taste. Perfect for cozy family dinners or as an impressive centerpiece for entertaining guests, this dish is sure to delight everyone at your table.

• Author: sofia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium eggplants
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef or lamb
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Slice each eggplant in half lengthwise and scoop out some flesh without piercing the skin. Reserve the flesh.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft (about 5 minutes).
4. Add ground meat; cook until browned (approximately 7 minutes).
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, reserved eggplant flesh, feta cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Fill each eggplant half with the mixture and place in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil if desired.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed eggplant half (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with cooked lentils or quinoa. - Enhance flavor by adding spices like cumin or paprika to the filling. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.