Are you ready to enjoy a dish that’s both healthy and full of flavor? These flavor-packed baked garlic eggplants with creamy garlic sauce are the perfect blend of tender roasted eggplants and a luxurious, tangy garlic sauce. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, this recipe will become a favorite at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These baked eggplants are:
- Healthy and Delicious: Packed with nutrients and bold flavors.
- Versatile: Great as a main dish, side, or appetizer.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplants | 3 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Garlic (minced) | 3-4 cloves |
| Olive oil | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Ground black pepper | To taste |
| Italian herbs | 1-2 teaspoons |
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sour cream | 2 tablespoons |
| Mayonnaise | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh dill (chopped) | To taste |
| Dried garlic | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplants
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise. Score the flesh of each half in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin.
- Place the eggplants cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Season the Eggplants
- In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Brush the mixture generously over the cut sides of the eggplants, ensuring every crevice is well-coated.
3. Bake the Eggplants
- Bake the seasoned eggplants in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before adding the sauce.
4. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, dill, dried garlic, paprika, and olive oil.
- Stir well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
5. Serve
- Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the baked eggplants.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious dish!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
Tips for Perfect Baked Garlic Eggplants
- Choose Fresh Eggplants: Pick eggplants that are firm and shiny with smooth skin. Smaller ones have fewer seeds and a sweeter taste.
- Remove Bitterness: Sprinkle salt over the eggplants, let them sit for 20 minutes, then rinse and pat dry to eliminate bitterness.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill elevate the flavors of this dish.
- Customize the Sauce: Add a splash of lemon juice or grated Parmesan for a unique twist.
These baked garlic eggplants with creamy garlic sauce are the perfect addition to any meal. Serve them as a standout side dish or a delicious vegetarian main course.
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Flavor-Packed Baked Garlic Eggplants with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and nutritious dish, these baked garlic eggplants with creamy garlic sauce are exactly what you need! With tender roasted eggplants and a rich, tangy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or main course, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Eggplants:
- 3 eggplants
- Fresh parsley (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 3–4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons Italian herbs
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Fresh dill (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplants
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise. Use a knife to score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin.
- Place the eggplants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
2. Season the Eggplants
- In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Generously brush the mixture over the cut sides of the eggplants, making sure to get into the crevices for maximum flavor.
3. Bake the Eggplants
- Bake the seasoned eggplants for 30-35 minutes, or until the flesh is golden brown and tender.
- Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly while preparing the sauce.
4. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, dill, dried garlic, paprika, and olive oil.
- Stir well until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve
- Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the baked eggplants.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Choose the Best Eggplants: Smaller eggplants tend to be sweeter and less bitter.
- Control Bitterness: If you’re worried about bitterness, sprinkle the cut sides with salt and let the eggplants rest for 20 minutes. Rinse and pat dry before seasoning.
- Sauce Customization: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
