Spiced peppers and eggplant

Spiced peppers and eggplant combines eggplant and vibrant red peppers with garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs for a flavorful, healthy dish. It's perfect as a side or light main course.

06 Feb 2026
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1 dash salt
1/2 eggplant
4 cups basil leaves
2 tbsp vinegar
3/4 tsp ground cumin
4 red peppers
4 garlic cloves
1/4 cup olive oil
3/4 tsp coriander leaves

Spiced peppers and eggplant is a delightful and healthy dish that combines vibrant vegetables and fragrant spices. This recipe uses fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques to create a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, it's both filling and satisfying.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
- Dice the eggplant into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the red bell peppers into thin strips.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the coriander leaves.

2. Cooking the Vegetables:
- Heat the 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the diced eggplant and sliced red bell peppers to the skillet.
- Sprinkle with a dash of salt and cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.

3. Adding Spices & Herbs:
- Sprinkle the ground cumin over the vegetables and stir well to combine.
- Pour in the 2 tablespoons of vinegar, allowing it to deglaze the pan, lifting any browned bits from the bottom.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vinegar is mostly absorbed and the flavors meld together.

4. Finishing Touch:
- Just before serving, add the fresh basil leaves and chopped coriander leaves to the skillet.
- Toss everything together until the herbs are well distributed and slightly wilted from the heat of the vegetables, about 1 minute.

5. Serving:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Enjoy your beautifully spiced peppers and eggplant! This dish offers a medley of flavors that is sure to please your taste buds. Serve it warm for a comforting meal or at room temperature for a refreshing option. Bon appétit!

Spiced peppers and eggplant FAQ:

What should the texture of the eggplant be when cooked?

The eggplant should be tender and slightly caramelized when cooked. This typically takes about 10-12 minutes in the skillet over medium heat.

How can I store leftovers of spiced peppers and eggplant?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I substitute the red peppers with another type of pepper?

Yes, you can substitute red bell peppers with yellow or orange bell peppers for similar sweetness, or use green bell peppers for a slightly more bitter flavor.

What can I use instead of vinegar in this recipe?

If you need a substitute for vinegar, you can use lemon juice or lime juice for acidity; just adjust to taste as they are more acidic.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

To add heat, you can include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Tips:

- For an added hint of smokiness, consider grilling the eggplant and red peppers instead of roasting them.

- Ensure the eggplant is cooked until tender to avoid any bitterness.

- Adjust the amount of garlic and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves just before serving for a burst of freshness.

- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor outcome.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 55kcal
Protein 2.23g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 4.46g
Sugar 7g
Fat 14g

Spiced peppers and eggplant