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