Eggplant Hors D'Oeuvre
A smoky, savory eggplant appetizer with raisins, tomatoes, garlic, and pine nuts, perfect for sharing at gatherings or adding a flavorful vegetarian option to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the eggplants lengthwise into halves and make several deep slits without piercing the skin.
- Insert the garlic slivers into the slits.
- Lightly sprinkle the cut surface with salt and place the halves on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
- Remove the eggplants, allow to cool slightly, and invert onto paper towels.
- As the eggplants cool, gently squeeze them to remove excess liquid.
- Scrape the eggplant and garlic from the skins into a small mixing bowl and mash.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in soy sauce, olive oil, chopped tomatoes, and raisins. Refrigerate overnight or for 2 to 3 days.
- Just before serving, stir the mixture well.
- Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Stir in toasted pine nuts.
- Cut pita bread into small triangles and serve alongside the eggplant mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the eggplants instead of baking. If you can't find golden raisins, regular raisins or dried cranberries can be used as a substitute. To enhance the dish, try adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. Using high-quality olive oil will elevate the flavor of the eggplant mixture. This dish is a great option for Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This eggplant hors d'oeuvre pairs beautifully with cut fresh vegetables and hummus for a delightful appetizer spread. You can also serve it alongside stuffed pita or as part of a Mediterranean platter with olives and feta cheese. For a heartier meal, enjoy it with a side of Creamy Pesto Tomato Rice or a light salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Serve with fresh pita bread for the best experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Hors D'Oeuvre contains roughly 1070 calories, with 17g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1483mg per serving (64% 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 prepare the eggplant mixture in advance?
Yes, the eggplant mixture can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead appetizer.
What can I serve this hors d'oeuvre with?
This hors d'oeuvre is versatile and can be served with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with a side of Zucchini And Rice Bake or a refreshing salad to complement the flavors.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this eggplant hors d'oeuvre is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for anyone following a plant-based diet, making it a perfect addition to vegetarian recipes for gatherings or parties.
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).