Eggplant Caviar
Eggplant Caviar is a flavorful, smoky spread with a smooth, creamy texture, enhanced by garlic, onion, lemon, and spices. Perfectly suited for serving with bread or crackers, it offers a delightful appetizer or snack that appeals to vegetarians and those seeking a healthy, tasty dip.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook eggplant in simmering water until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Drain, peel, and finely chop the eggplant.
- If too moist and watery, heat the chopped eggplant in a skillet and stir until moisture is absorbed.
- Blend the eggplant pulp with minced onion, mashed garlic, tomato salsa, sugar, dry mustard, olive or corn oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper, paprika, marjoram, and optional sesame seed.
- Combine in a blender until well mixed and fairly smooth.
- Chill the mixture well before serving.
- Serve with French or rye bread or crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the eggplant instead of boiling it. If you're short on time, you can substitute store-bought roasted eggplant for a quicker preparation. Adjust the amount of lemon juice and sugar to balance the flavors according to your taste. You might also try adding herbs like marjoram or basil for an extra layer of flavor, reminiscent of Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this eggplant caviar with slices of French or rye bread, or alongside crispy crackers for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with a refreshing Tomato And Mozzarella Summer Salad, making for a delightful appetizer or light meal. Consider offering it with olives and a selection of cheeses for a complete mezze platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the eggplant caviar in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also enjoy it cold as a dip, which enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Caviar contains roughly 217 calories, with 7g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 eggplant caviar ahead of time?
Yes, eggplant caviar tastes even better when made ahead. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it a perfect option for parties or gatherings.
Is there a vegan alternative to the oil in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil as a substitute for olive or corn oil. Both options will provide a neutral flavor while keeping the dish vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with eggplant caviar?
In addition to bread and crackers, eggplant caviar pairs well with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and cucumbers. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled meats or fish, or incorporate it into a sandwich with roasted vegetables.
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).