Is eggplant good for a Mediterranean diet?

Absolutely! Eggplant is a staple in Mediterranean cooking. It’s full of antioxidants and fiber, and it pairs perfectly with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.

How best to roast eggplant?

Cut it evenly, salt if needed to reduce bitterness, and roast at high heat (375°F or more) with olive oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan—that's the key to browning, not steaming.

How does Gordon Ramsay cook eggplant?

Ramsay typically slices and sears or roasts eggplant with bold seasonings like garlic, chili, and herbs. His eggplant dishes are all about texture—soft inside, crisp outside.

How do you make roasted eggplant not bitter?

Salt the diced eggplant and let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and dry. This draws out excess moisture and any lingering bitterness. Fresh eggplants are usually mild and may not need this step.

Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant – Easy Vegan Side Dish

Name: Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant – Easy Vegan Side Dish
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, diced; 2 zucchini or yellow squash, chopped; 2–3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red onion, chopped; 2 bell peppers, sliced; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn; (Optional) Cherry tomatoes, vegan feta, chickpeas, red pepper flakes

Description

Juicy roasted eggplant and Mediterranean veggies tossed with garlic, basil, and olive oil. Vegan, gluten-free, and meal prep–friendly.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium eggplants, diced

2 zucchini or yellow squash, chopped

2–3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red onion, chopped

2 bell peppers, sliced

1/3 cup olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup fresh basil, torn

(Optional) Cherry tomatoes, vegan feta, chickpeas, red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Dice eggplant and salt it in a colander for 30 minutes.

2. Chop all remaining vegetables while the eggplant rests.

3. Rinse and pat dry the eggplant thoroughly.

4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

5. Combine all vegetables on a rimmed baking sheet.

6. Toss with olive oil and salt until evenly coated.

7. Roast for 50 minutes, stirring after 30 minutes.

8. Toss with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

• You can skip salting if your eggplant is young and mild.

• Serve warm or chilled. Great with couscous, wraps, or on toast.

• Store in airtight container up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Add lemon juice or tahini drizzle for extra brightness.

Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 0.75 cup
Calories: 105
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 151mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Mediterranean roasted eggplant, vegan roasted vegetables, roasted eggplant and veggies