Eggplant and Tomato Delight (No Oven, No Frying)

This Eggplant and Tomato Delight is a refreshing and light dish that brings together the earthy flavor of eggplant with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the creaminess of Fior di latte mozzarella. With no need for an oven or frying, this recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal that’s full of fresh, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 eggplant
  • 2 ripe tomatoes
  • 2 Fior di latte mozzarellas
  • Fresh parsley (a handful, chopped)
  • Fresh basil (a few leaves, chopped)
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Eggplant:
    • Slice the eggplant into thin rounds (about 1/4 inch thick).
    • Sprinkle the eggplant slices with a little salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture and reduce bitterness.
    • After 10 minutes, gently pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel.
  2. Marinate the Eggplant:
    • In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and the juice of half a lemon.
    • Add a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to the mixture and stir well.
    • Add the eggplant slices to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade. Let the eggplant marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Prepare the Tomatoes and Mozzarella:
    • Slice the tomatoes and Fior di latte mozzarellas into rounds of similar thickness to the eggplant slices.
  4. Assemble the Dish:
    • On a serving platter, arrange the eggplant slices, alternating with the tomato and mozzarella slices in a pattern.
    • Drizzle the remaining marinade from the eggplant over the entire dish.
  5. Season and Garnish:
    • Season the assembled dish with a little more salt and pepper to taste.
    • Garnish with extra chopped parsley and basil for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve immediately as a light main dish or as a refreshing appetizer. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad.

Conclusion

This Eggplant and Tomato Delight is a fresh, easy-to-make dish that highlights the natural flavors of summer vegetables and creamy mozzarella. With no need for frying or baking, it’s a healthy option that still delivers on taste. Perfect for warm days when you want something light yet satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!