Baked Eggplant With Tomato And Herbs

Elevate your dinner table with this delightful Turkish-inspired recipe for Baked Eggplant with Tomato and Herbs. Bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones. The combination of tender eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious blend that is sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
– Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash the eggplants and slice them into 1/2-inch rounds. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out the bitterness.
3. After 15 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
4. In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Spoon the tomato mixture evenly over each eggplant slice, ensuring that they are well coated.
7. Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are slightly caramelized.
9. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired, before serving.

This Baked Eggplant with Tomato and Herbs recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of Turkish cuisine from the comfort of your own home. The tender eggplant paired with the juicy tomatoes and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious. Serve it as a side dish or a main course for a satisfying and wholesome meal that will leave everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of this Mediterranean-inspired dish!