Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 large eggplants (about 1 pound each)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh herbs of your choice (such as basil or mint) for garnish
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes (includes 30 minutes of baking time)
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Pierce the eggplants several times with a fork and bake them whole in the oven for 30 minutes, or until they are soft and collapsed.
- Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool. Then peel off the skin and cut the flesh into small cubes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed eggplant, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and chili flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Garnish with fresh herbs of your choice.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or as a light meal with whole-grain bread or crackers.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on average values and may vary depending on specific ingredients used)
- Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving (assuming a generous serving size of about 1 cup)
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 6g (approx.)
Dish Characteristics:
- The dish combines the rich flavor of eggplant with the tangy taste of yogurt, creating a unique and refreshing salad.
- The use of fresh herbs adds a pop of flavor and freshness to the dish.
- It's a great side dish for any meal, especially those with a vegetarian or Middle Eastern theme.
User Comments:
- "This is an excellent dish! The combination of eggplant and yogurt is really unique and delicious."
- "I love how easy this recipe is to make. It's perfect for a quick and healthy meal."
- "The chili flakes give this salad a nice kick, making it perfect for those who enjoy spicy food."
- "The fresh herb garnish really takes this dish to the next level. I'll definitely make this again."
- "This salad is perfect for summer when you want something light and refreshing."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to use a good quality yogurt for best results. Avoid using flavored yogurt as it may alter the flavor of the salad.
- If you can't find large eggplants, you can use smaller ones and adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Adjust the chili flakes according to your preference for spice level.
