Bruschetta alla melanzane (eggplant bruschetta)
Bruschetta alla melanzane is an Italian starter featuring roasted eggplant, fresh spearmint, and garlic, all drizzled with vinegar. This simple dish is ideal for entertaining or as a light snack.
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
1/4 cup olive oil1 eggplant
1/3 cup spearmint
1 tbsp vinegar
2 garlic cloves
Bruschetta alla melanzane, or eggplant bruschetta, is a delightful Italian appetizer that combines the earthy flavors of roasted eggplant with fresh spearmint, aromatic garlic, and a touch of vinegar. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a light snack. The following recipe will guide you through each step to create this delicious treat.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the eggplant and cut it into small cubes (about ½ inch in size).
- Spread the cubed eggplant on a baking sheet and drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over them. Toss to coat the eggplant evenly.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the eggplant for 25-30 minutes, or until the cubes are golden brown and tender. Stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
- While the eggplant is roasting, mince the garlic cloves.
- Rinse the spearmint leaves, pat them dry, and finely chop.
- Once the eggplant has finished roasting, transfer the cubes to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the minced garlic, chopped spearmint, and the remaining olive oil to the bowl.
- Drizzle the vinegar over the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently mix all the ingredients together until the eggplant is well-coated with the oil, garlic, spearmint, and vinegar.
- Let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This gives time for the eggplant to absorb the garlic and spearmint flavors.
- While the bruschetta mixture is marinating, you can toast slices of baguette or any crusty bread until they are golden and crisp.
- Spoon the eggplant mixture onto the toasted bread slices.
- Optionally, you can garnish with additional fresh spearmint leaves.
Your Bruschetta alla melanzane is now ready to serve! This flavorful appetizer is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests with its rich, earthy flavors and refreshing minty notes. Enjoy it as a starter or a light snack, and don't forget to pair it with a nice glass of wine for the full Italian experience.
Bruschetta alla melanzane (eggplant bruschetta) FAQ:
Roast the eggplant for 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until it is golden brown and tender. Stir halfway through for even roasting.
Crusty bread like a baguette is ideal for bruschetta. Toast the slices until they are golden and crisp before serving.
While the eggplant mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, it's best to toast the bread just before serving to maintain its crispness.
If spearmint isn't available, you can use fresh mint or even basil for a different flavor profile, though the taste will change slightly.
The eggplant is done when it is golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. It should also feel slightly soft, indicating it has cooked through.
Tips:
- Choose a firm, shiny eggplant for the best results; avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
- Salt the eggplant slices before cooking to remove excess moisture and reduce bitterness. Let them sit for about 30 minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel.
- For a smokier flavor, grill the eggplant instead of roasting it in the oven.
- Add a touch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of spice in your bruschetta.
- Use fresh spearmint for the best flavor; dried mint can be used in a pinch, but the taste won't be as vibrant.
- Toast your bread slices until they're golden brown and crispy to ensure they hold up well under the weight of the eggplant mixture.
- Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the finished bruschetta for added richness and flavor.
Nutrition per serving
6 ServingsCalories 20kcal
Protein 0.80g
Carbohydrates 4.72g
Fiber 2.28g
Sugar 2.67g
Fat 10g
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