Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant

1. Prepare the Eggplants:
Cut the eggplants into slices or cubes, depending on your preference.
Sprinkle salt over the cut eggplant pieces and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This will help draw out any bitterness from the eggplants. After the time is up, rinse the eggplants and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Season the Eggplants:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, combine the prepared eggplant pieces with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the eggplants are evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. Bake:
Spread the seasoned eggplant pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning the eggplants halfway through to ensure even cooking. The eggplants should turn golden brown and become tender.
4. Add Final Touches:
While the eggplants are baking, melt the 20g of butter in a small pan over low heat.
Once the eggplants are done, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle with the melted butter and additional olive oil, if desired. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
Cover the dish and let it rest for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve:
Let the eggplants cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy this delicious baked eggplant as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with grilled meat or fish: This eggplant dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, beef, or fish, adding a savory vegetable option to your meal.
Serve with rice or couscous: For a complete meal, serve the eggplant with a side of fluffy rice or couscous to balance the richness of the garlic butter.
Enjoy with a glass of wine: This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Cooking Tips
Don’t skip the salting step: Salting the eggplant helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a better texture and flavor.
Use extra virgin olive oil: For the best flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to season the eggplant.
Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the eggplants for added depth of flavor.
Variations to Try
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Cheese topping: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the eggplants during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, crispy topping.
Vegan option: Substitute the butter with more olive oil for a vegan version of this dish.
Nutritional Benefits
Eggplants are a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, particularly vitamin C and vitamin B6. The olive oil and butter provide healthy fats, while garlic offers anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. This dish is not only flavorful but also nutritious, making it a great addition to your balanced diet.

Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy eggplants. The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh parsley creates an irresistible flavor profile, while the roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the eggplant. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute the eggplant with other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a different flavor and texture.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the eggplant and season it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I freeze the leftovers? While the texture may change slightly, you can freeze leftover baked eggplant. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Can I make this dish spicy? Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the garlic and oil mixture for a spicy version.

Can I skip the butter? Yes, if you prefer a lighter dish, you can omit the butter and use more olive oil instead.