Eggplant Salad With Tomatoes And Feta Cheese
A vibrant eggplant salad with fresh tomatoes, basil, feta, and olives, offering smoky, tangy, and savory flavors perfect for warm weather gatherings or light meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat broiler.
- Place eggplant halves cut side up on a broiler pan and brush with 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Broil until golden, about 3 minutes.
- Allow to cool.
- Cut eggplant into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Combine eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Add the dressing to the eggplant mixture.
- Stir in crumbled feta cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with brine-cured black olives.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the eggplant sit with salt for about 30 minutes before broiling to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute with dried basil, using about one-third the amount. Additionally, feel free to add other Mediterranean ingredients like capers for an extra briny touch.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Pair with crusty bread or serve alongside dishes like Yogurt And Cucumber Dip for a refreshing contrast. It also complements grilled meats or can be enjoyed as part of a larger spread of Mediterranean recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Salad With Tomatoes And Feta Cheese contains roughly 2871 calories, with 11g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 309g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (158% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 12g 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 use different types of cheese instead of Feta?
Yes, you can substitute Feta with goat cheese for a tangy flavor or even mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep in mind that the texture and saltiness will vary, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Is it necessary to broil the eggplant?
Broiling enhances the eggplant's flavor and gives it a nice char. However, you can also grill the eggplant or roast it in the oven if you prefer a different cooking method.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day ahead. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
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).