Side dishes

Aubergines with garlic and parsley

⏱ 30 min👤 6 pp★★★☆☆

Aubergines with garlic and parsley is a lovely versatile dish you can make all summer long. Very good if made hot, it is also really delicious straight from the fridge. You can enjoy it with a slice of bread, but also with pasta or even on pizza. Similarly, it may inspire you to prepare courgettes or other vegetables in the same way, or perhaps a mixture of zucchini and eggplant. Don’t forget to add some fresh basil which will give it a special touch.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 185 kcal / serving

Protein
2.5g
Carbohydrates
24g
Fat
8g
Fiber
4.5g

* approximate values per serving

Information
30 minutes Total time
Serves 6 persons
★★★☆☆ Challenging

Preparation

Wash the aubergines, dry them with a towel and, without peeling, cut into pieces, put them in a colander and sprinkle with a little salt. After about half an hour the aubergines will have lost some of their moisture; squeeze lightly and fry in olive oil. When they begin to brown, drain with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate in such a way that any excess oil drains away. Fry the garlic in the same pan. When it begins to brown remove from the pan and replace with the chopped tomatoes, basil leaves and, after two or three minutes, the aubergine. Season with salt and let it cook for another ten minutes by which time it will be ready.

Tips
These aubergines are good hot or cold. For something even more tasty, you can add some capers and black olives whilst frying the eggplant in plenty of hot oil.
Trivia
This recipe is known as ‘al funghetto’ in Italian, so called because it is prepared in a manner similar to mushrooms, that is in a pan with the addition of garlic.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
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Additional information

Eggplant in Mushroom Style with Fresh Tomatoes

One of the tastiest variations of eggplant in mushroom style is certainly the one with fresh tomatoes. This preparation enriches the dish with a lively flavor and a touch of acidity that perfectly complements the sweetness of the eggplants. To make it, after sautéing the eggplants in extra virgin olive oil, diced ripe tomatoes are added. The tomatoes will release their juices, creating a delicious sauce that envelops the eggplants. This variation not only makes the dish more colorful but also adds a note of freshness, ideal for accompanying meat or fish main courses. Serve the eggplant in mushroom style with tomatoes as a side dish or as an appetizer, and you will discover a new way to appreciate this classic of Italian cuisine.

Eggplant in Mushroom Style from Campania

In Campania, eggplant in mushroom style is prepared with particular attention to the freshness of the ingredients and local traditions. This regional variation involves the use of eggplants of typical varieties from the area, which give the dish a unique flavor. The preparation remains similar, but capers and olives can also be added for an extra touch of savoriness. Often, the dish is served with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, which adds a green and aromatic note. Eggplant in mushroom style from Campania can be enjoyed both hot and at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for a buffet or an informal lunch with friends and family. This dish represents not only an element of local gastronomy but also a way to bring the authentic flavors of Campania to the table.

Light Eggplant in Mushroom Style without Oil

For those seeking a lighter version of eggplant in mushroom style, it is possible to make it without oil, using either steaming or a non-stick pan. This light preparation retains the flavor of the eggplants but significantly reduces the caloric content. Simply cut the eggplants into cubes and cook them in a pan with a splash of water and a pinch of salt, adding garlic and basil for flavor. Although the texture will be slightly different, the final result will still be a tasty and healthy dish, perfect for those following a controlled diet. Light eggplant in mushroom style can be served as a side dish or as a main course, accompanied by a fresh salad. This version is ideal for those who wish to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Eggplants and Approximate Calories

Eggplants are a vegetable rich in health benefits. They are indeed an important source of antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which protects cells from damage by free radicals. Additionally, they contain fiber that promotes digestion and can help keep cholesterol levels in check. Eggplants have a low caloric content, about 25 calories per 100 grams, making them an excellent choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a balanced diet. They are also low in carbohydrates and rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin B and vitamin K. Incorporating eggplant in mushroom style into your diet means adding not only flavor but also health to your daily menu.

Can Eggplant in Mushroom Style be Frozen?

The answer is yes, eggplant in mushroom style can be frozen, but it is important to follow some steps to maintain the quality of the dish. Before freezing, it is advisable to let them cool completely and then transfer them to airtight containers or food bags, ensuring to remove excess air. This way, frost formation is avoided and flavor is preserved. Frozen eggplant in mushroom style can be stored for up to 3 months. When you wish to consume them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator and then reheat them in a pan or microwave. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious. This is a great way to always have a versatile and tasty side dish ready to use.