Cold Russian Eggplant Salad
A flavorful chilled eggplant salad with fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for light meals, picnics, or summer gatherings, offering a smoky, tangy taste with vibrant textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the eggplants, onions, carrots, green pepper, and tomatoes in a covered casserole dish until all ingredients are used.
- Pour tomato sauce over the layered vegetables, then add the bay leaf and chopped parsley on top.
- Drizzle vegetable oil evenly over all the ingredients.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until all ingredients are very tender.
- Remove from oven, mix the ingredients thoroughly, and let it chill.
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature on crusty bread.
Tips & Substitutions
When layering the vegetables, try to slice them uniformly for even cooking. If you're short on time, you can substitute canned tomatoes for fresh ones. For a smokier flavor, consider grilling the eggplants before baking. This dish also works well with additional spices like cumin or coriander. If you prefer a creamier texture, a dollop of yogurt can be added before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cold Russian Eggplant Salad on crusty bread for a delightful appetizer or light meal. It pairs wonderfully with Cucumber Sandwiches With Mint Butter for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled meats or a simple green salad. This dish is perfect for picnics or potlucks as it holds up well at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the salad to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a pot over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can enjoy it straight from the fridge for a refreshing cold salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Russian Eggplant Salad contains roughly 727 calories, with 13g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), and iron (90% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 699mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is ideal for making ahead. In fact, letting it chill overnight enhances the flavors. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
What can I substitute for eggplant?
If you want to substitute eggplant, zucchini or roasted bell peppers work well for a similar texture. However, keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, so adjust your seasonings accordingly.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Cold Russian Eggplant Salad is a vegetarian dish packed with nutrients from the vegetables. It's a great option for anyone looking for hearty vegetarian recipes, making it perfect for gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).