10 Eggplant Recipes That Prove It's More Than a Controversial Emoji

Eggplant is a vegetable that works well in many different types of dishes, from snacks to main courses. Whether roasted, grilled, or baked, it easily absorbs flavors while maintaining its own texture. These eggplant recipes make it simple to include this hearty ingredient in your meals. If you’ve never been a fan of eggplant, these dishes might just change your mind.

Lebanese Baba Ganoush

Baba ganoush on a plate with pomegranate seeds, parsley. — Lebanese Baba Ganoush. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This Lebanese Baba Ganoush features roasted eggplant, olive oil, garlic, and lemon, creating a smooth, smoky dip. It takes about 40 minutes to make and pairs beautifully with pita or vegetables. The combination of roasted eggplant and garlic gives it a rich, earthy flavor. Perfect for a savory appetizer or side, it’s a great way to highlight the natural flavors of eggplant.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush

Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini

Baba ganoush on a plate with parsley and lemon. — Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini uses roasted eggplant blended with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Ready in about 35 minutes, it delivers a smoky flavor without the tahini, making it lighter. The simplicity of ingredients allows the roasted eggplant to shine with a mild, creamy texture. This version is great for those looking for a dairy-free and nut-free option.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Side view of slice of moussaka. — Greek Vegetarian Moussaka. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka layers roasted eggplant, potatoes, and a spiced tomato sauce, topped with a creamy bechamel sauce. It takes around 90 minutes to prepare, delivering a rich, hearty meal perfect for vegetarians. The eggplant brings a slightly sweet and savory balance to the dish, blending well with the spiced sauce. It’s a comforting, filling meal without the meat.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Eggplant Grilled Cheese With Green Hot Sauce

A grilled sandwich with mushrooms, tomatoes and pesto on a cutting board. — Eggplant Grilled Cheese With Green Hot Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This Eggplant Grilled Cheese packs grilled slices of eggplant between two pieces of bread, melted cheese, and a zesty green hot sauce. Ready in about 25 minutes, the eggplant adds a meaty texture to this cheesy sandwich. The tangy sauce brings a fresh kick, balancing the richness of the melted cheese. It’s a fun twist on a classic sandwich that’s great for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Grilled Cheese With Green Hot Sauce

Sabich Sandwich with Eggplant and Potatoes

A plate with pitas and vegetables on it. — Sabich Sandwich with Eggplant and Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

The Sabich Sandwich layers roasted eggplant, boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and fresh veggies inside pita bread. It takes about 40 minutes to make and is perfect for a filling, vegetarian sandwich. The roasted eggplant adds a tender, smoky flavor that blends beautifully with the creamy potatoes and tangy pickles. It’s a satisfying meal that’s full of contrasting textures.
Get the Recipe: Sabich Sandwich with Eggplant and Potatoes

Homemade Balkan Bourekas with Eggplant

Cheesy Balkan bourekas with eggplant and tomatoes. — Homemade Balkan Bourekas with Eggplant. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Homemade Balkan Bourekas are filled with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, Jarlsberg, and feta cheese, wrapped in flaky pastry. They take about 50 minutes to prepare, and the eggplant gives the filling a rich, savory flavor. The combination of Jarlsberg and feta creates a creamy, tangy balance in every bite. These bourekas make a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Balkan Bourekas with Eggplant

Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip

Zaalouk in a white plate with spoon and napkin. — Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Zaalouk is a Moroccan-inspired roasted eggplant dip mixed with tomatoes, garlic, and spices. It takes about 45 minutes to prepare, offering a flavorful, chunky texture. The roasted eggplant pairs well with the sweetness of the tomatoes, while the spices add warmth. It’s a versatile dip that goes great with bread or as a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip

Roasted Eggplant Soup

Roasted Eggplant Soup blends roasted eggplant with tomatoes, garlic, and vegetable broth into a creamy, comforting soup. It takes about 60 minutes to make, delivering a smoky, hearty flavor. The eggplant’s rich texture pairs perfectly with the acidity of the tomatoes. This soup is ideal for a warming, flavorful meal any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Eggplant Soup

Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Eggplant Tomato Stacks layer roasted eggplant with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a light and refreshing dish. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it a quick, easy option. The eggplant provides a tender, mild base that complements the juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light meal or appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Eggplant Shakshuka

Eggplant Shakshuka adds roasted eggplant to the traditional tomato and poached egg dish, bringing extra depth and texture. It takes about 40 minutes to make and is a hearty, flavorful meal. The eggplant absorbs the rich tomato sauce, creating a velvety texture that complements the soft poached eggs. This shakshuka is great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Shakshuka

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10 Eggplant Recipes That Prove It’s More Than a Controversial Emoji