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Transforming humble eggplant into a delicious, savory dish is easier than you think. Balsamic-roasted eggplant rounds are a perfect balance of rich flavors and tender texture. This simple yet flavorful recipe makes an excellent side dish or a light main course. The tangy balsamic vinegar pairs beautifully with the earthy eggplant, while garlic and Italian seasoning add a delightful aroma. Garnished with fresh parsley, these eggplant rounds are sure to impress at any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 Eggplant
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar
- 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 3 tsp. Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp. Sea Salt
- 1/2 tsp. Black Pepper
- Fresh Parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature by the time your eggplant is ready.
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Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add Italian seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and one teaspoon of minced garlic (reserve the remaining garlic for garnish). Mix until the ingredients form a smooth, well-combined marinade.
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Prepare the Eggplant:
Start by slicing off the ends of the eggplant and discarding them. Cut the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Marinate the Eggplant:
Generously coat each eggplant slice with the marinade using a basting brush. Flip the slices and brush the other side as well, ensuring every piece is thoroughly covered.
Bake the Eggplant:
Place the marinated eggplant slices in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip the slices and bake for another 10 minutes, or until both sides are golden brown and tender.
Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the eggplant from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil, sprinkle the remaining minced garlic on top, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm, and enjoy the savory goodness of balsamic-roasted eggplant rounds!
This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor with each bite. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light entrée, it’s bound to be a hit at your table.