Indulge in the Mediterranean-inspired flavours of this eggplant salad. Grilled eggplant combines beautifully with the freshness of grated tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and the creamy richness of Parmesan and feta cheeses. Topped with the buttery crunch of Soha’s premium pine nuts, this dish is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, ideal as a main course or a side dish.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds
- 2 medium onions, sliced into rounds
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, grated
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves chopped
- ¼ cup roasted Soha pine nuts
For the Vinegar Glaze
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Instructions
1. Roast the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add a little oil and water to the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the eggplant and onion slices in a single layer. Drizzle with a little olive oil. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and nicely caramelized.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes
While the eggplant is roasting, grate the ripe tomatoes into a bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and let sit to allow the flavors to develop.
3. Toast the Soha Pine Nuts
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the Soha pine nuts until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Assemble and Bake
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Spoon the grated tomatoes over the eggplant and onion, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle with parmesan and crumbled feta cheese, if desired. Sprinkle with chopped basil and mint. Drizzle with a little vinegar glaze. Finish with the toasted Soha pine nuts for added crunch and flavor. Serve warm as a main course or a flavorful side dish.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the dish with chopped mint and basil. Finish with the toasted Soha pine nuts for added crunch and flavor. Serve warm as a main course or a flavorful side dish.
This Mediterranean Eggplant Salad is a feast for the senses, offering a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, fresh, and nutty flavours. Serve it with crusty bread or as a complement to grilled meats or fish for an unforgettable meal.