Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This roasted eggplant recipe is both simple and versatile. It requires just a handful of ingredients, yet delivers bold, savory flavors that complement a wide variety of meals. The eggplant turns golden and tender in the oven, soaking up the garlic and herbs beautifully. Whether you serve it hot, cold, or at room temperature, it’s a deliciously healthy dish that fits into Mediterranean-inspired meals with ease.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Juice of ½ lemon
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a large bowl, toss the eggplant cubes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Spread the eggplant evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and tender.
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Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Sprinkle with crumbled feta for a creamy, tangy touch.
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Add chopped kalamata olives for extra Mediterranean flair.
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Toss with cooked quinoa or couscous to turn it into a complete meal.
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Add fresh mint or basil instead of parsley for a refreshing twist.
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Drizzle with tahini or a yogurt sauce for a creamy topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad-style side.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, roasted eggplant keeps well and can be served hot, cold, or at room temperature.
Do I need to peel the eggplant before roasting?
No, the skin softens as it roasts and adds texture, but you can peel if preferred.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?
Absolutely—fresh oregano, thyme, or rosemary work wonderfully.
How do I keep eggplant from becoming soggy?
Roast in a single layer without overcrowding the pan so it crisps up.
Can I roast eggplant without oil?
You can reduce the oil or use a light spray, but oil helps with caramelization and flavor.
What other seasonings go well with roasted eggplant?
Cumin, smoked paprika, or za’atar are excellent flavor boosters.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan. Adding feta would make it vegetarian.
Can I freeze roasted eggplant?
Freezing isn’t ideal since it changes the texture, but it’s best stored in the fridge.
What can I serve with Mediterranean roasted eggplant?
It pairs well with grilled meats, falafel, hummus, couscous, or grain bowls.
Can I use baby eggplants instead of large ones?
Yes, smaller eggplants roast beautifully and may even cook faster.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the natural richness of eggplant with bright, zesty Mediterranean touches. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side, main, or mezze platter component and works beautifully hot or cold. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
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Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant is a simple, healthy, and versatile dish made with golden, tender eggplant cubes roasted with garlic, olive oil, and oregano. Finished with lemon juice and parsley, it’s a bright and flavorful side that can be enjoyed hot, cold, or at room temperature.
- Author: Tina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Juice of ½ lemon
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the eggplant cubes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the eggplant evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and tender.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Sprinkle with feta for a creamy, tangy touch.
- Add chopped kalamata olives for extra flavor.
- Toss with quinoa or couscous for a complete meal.
- Swap parsley with fresh mint or basil for a refreshing twist.
- Top with tahini or yogurt sauce for a creamy finish.
- Store in the fridge up to 3 days; enjoy reheated or cold.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup roasted eggplant
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg