Middle East Eggplant Spread
A smoky, creamy Middle Eastern eggplant spread with garlic, lemon, and tahini, perfect as a dip or side for gatherings and casual bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Pierce each eggplant with a fork and place in a shallow casserole.
- Bake until the eggplants begin to look like they are imploding, the skin puckers, and the eggplant looks convex.
- Remove from oven and cool until easy to handle.
- Slit the eggplants and scoop out the pulp into a food processor.
- Process until the mixture is pureed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the eggplants instead of baking them. If tahini is not available, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika. This spread can also be made with roasted red peppers for a twist, similar to Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this eggplant spread as a dip with pita chips or fresh vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Honeyed Zucchini And Tomatoes for a delightful summer meal. For an added touch, garnish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. It can also be spread on sandwiches or served alongside grilled meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture. It can also be served cold as a dip.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Middle East Eggplant Spread contains roughly 153 calories, with 11g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (93% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1945mg per serving (85% 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 spread ahead of time?
Yes, this eggplant spread can be made a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when served the next day.
What can I serve with this eggplant spread?
This spread is versatile and can be served with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It also works well as a spread on sandwiches or as part of a mezze platter alongside other Mediterranean recipes.
How can I adjust the seasoning?
Taste the spread after blending and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice. For a richer taste, increase the tahini or olive oil. Remember that the flavors will meld as it sits, so adjust accordingly.
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).