18 Best Italian Pickled Eggplant Recipe You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, then you've probably heard of pickled eggplants. This delicious and tangy dish is a staple in many Italian households and makes for a perfect appetizer or side dish. But with so many recipes out there, it can be overwhelming to find the best one. Look no further, because we have the ultimate best Italian pickled eggplant recipe just for you.
Eggplant is a staple in Italian cuisine and this pickled eggplant recipe adds a tangy twist to the classic vegetable. The eggplant is pickled with a mixture of vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs for a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it as a side dish or use it as a topping for sandwiches and salads. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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Italian-Style Grilled Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Eggplants, Salt, Freshly Ground
Take your grilling game to the next level with this Italian-style grilled eggplant recipe. The eggplant is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian herbs before being grilled to perfection. The result is a tender and flavorful eggplant that pairs perfectly with any grilled meat or can be enjoyed on its own as a vegetarian option.
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Eggplant Caponata
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Kosher Salt, Olive Oil, Celery, Bulb Fennel
Caponata is a traditional Italian dish that features eggplant, tomatoes, and other vegetables cooked in a sweet and sour sauce. This version uses eggplant as the star ingredient and is perfect for those looking for a hearty and flavorful meal. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for a satisfying and delicious meal.
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Italian Sausages with Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chopped Onion, Garlic, Zucchini, Eggplant
If you love Italian sausages, then this recipe is a must-try. The sausages are cooked with a delicious and colorful ratatouille made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce.
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Italian Grilled Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Italian Parsley, Garlic, Olive Oil
Grilled vegetables are a staple in Italian cuisine and this grilled eggplant recipe is no exception. The eggplant is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian herbs before being grilled to perfection. The result is a tender and flavorful eggplant that is perfect as a side dish or as a topping for sandwiches and salads.
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Simple Italian Fried Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Canola, Large Eggs, Flour, Salt
This simple and easy Italian fried eggplant recipe is a great way to use up any excess eggplant you may have on hand. The eggplant is dipped in a simple batter and fried until crispy and golden. Serve it as a side dish or as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce. It's a delicious and versatile way to enjoy eggplant.
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Italian Layered Vegetable Casserole
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Medium Zucchini, Chopped Parsley, Onion
This Italian layered vegetable casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd. Layers of eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese are baked together for a hearty and flavorful dish. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal that will please everyone at the dinner table.
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Italian Eggplant Ricotta Bake
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Small Onion, Garlic, Eggplant, Large Tomato
This Italian eggplant ricotta bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any day of the week. The eggplant is baked with a creamy and cheesy ricotta mixture for a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of pasta for a complete Italian feast.
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Eggplant Cacciatore
Main Ingredients: Italian Eggplant, Olive Oil, Penne Pasta, Cremini
Eggplant cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that is often made with chicken, but this vegetarian version is just as delicious. The eggplant is cooked with tomatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers in a flavorful sauce for a hearty and satisfying meal. Serve it over pasta or with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the delicious sauce.
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Italian Eggplant Grilled Cheese
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Sandwich Bread, Butter, Garlic Powder
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a comfort food favorite, and this Italian eggplant grilled cheese takes it to a whole new level. The eggplant is grilled and placed between two slices of bread with gooey cheese for a delicious and indulgent sandwich. Serve it with a side of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
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Eggplant Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Olive Oil, Sea Salt, Fresh Ground Black
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional lasagna, this eggplant lasagna is the perfect option. Layers of eggplant, marinara sauce, and cheese are baked together for a delicious and satisfying meal. It's a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables and still enjoy all the flavors of a classic lasagna.
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Simple Moist Italian Fried Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Canola, Large Eggs, Flour, Salt
This simple and moist Italian fried eggplant recipe is a great way to enjoy eggplant without the hassle of breading and frying. The eggplant is baked with a mixture of Italian herbs and olive oil for a flavorful and tender result. Serve it as a side dish or as a topping for sandwiches and salads.
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Paleo Italian Breaded Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Large Egg, Arrowroot Flour, Sea Salt, Ground
If you're following a paleo lifestyle, this Italian breaded eggplant recipe is a must-try. The eggplant is coated in a mixture of almond flour, Italian herbs, and spices before being baked to crispy perfection. Serve it with your favorite paleo-friendly dipping sauce for a delicious and guilt-free snack or side dish.
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Italian Vegetable Casserole
Main Ingredients: Italian Bread, Butter, Italian Sausage, Onion, Cloves
This Italian vegetable casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It's loaded with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers for a burst of Italian flavors in every bite. Serve it as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce.
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Eggplant Casserole
Main Ingredients: Chinese Eggplants, Medium Tomatoes, Crushed Tomatoes
This eggplant casserole is a great way to use up any extra eggplant you may have on hand. The eggplant is layered with a flavorful tomato sauce and topped with cheese for a delicious and easy meal. Serve it with a side of pasta or a salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.
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Italian Quinoa Casserole
Main Ingredients: Quinoa, Olive Oil, Vegetable Stock, Eggplant, Coarse
Quinoa is a popular and healthy grain that is often used as a substitute for rice or pasta. This Italian quinoa casserole is a great way to incorporate quinoa into your diet while still enjoying all the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine. It's loaded with eggplant, tomatoes, and Italian herbs for a delicious and nutritious meal.
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Italian-style Antipasto
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Eggplant, Red Pepper, White Onion, Tomatoes
Antipasto is a traditional Italian appetizer that features a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables. This Italian-style antipasto is a great way to add some Italian flavors to any gathering or party. Serve it with a variety of Italian meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables for a delicious and impressive spread.
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Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Bread Crumbs, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Egg
Eggplant parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many. This version features crispy and breaded eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of pasta or a salad for a complete and delicious Italian feast.
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Italian Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Vine Ripened Tomatoes, Zucchini, Yellow Squash
Ratatouille is a classic French dish, but this Italian version adds some Italian flavors to the mix. The eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers are cooked in a savory tomato sauce for a hearty and flavorful dish. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the delicious sauce.
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Chicken Sorrentino
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, All Purpose Flour
Chicken Sorrentino is an Italian-American dish that features chicken cutlets topped with eggplant, prosciutto, and mozzarella cheese. This version is a simplified and easier version of the classic dish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve it with pasta or a side of vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make the best Italian pickled eggplant, you will need the following ingredients:
1. Eggplants
The star of the dish, make sure to pick firm and fresh eggplants for the best results. You can use any variety, but the traditional Italian recipe calls for the long and slender Italian eggplant.
2. Salt
Salt is used to remove the bitterness from the eggplants and also helps in preserving them.
3. Garlic
Garlic adds flavor and depth to the pickled eggplants. Make sure to use fresh cloves.
4. White vinegar
Vinegar is the main ingredient in pickling and adds the necessary tanginess to the dish.
5. Sugar
To balance out the tanginess, add some sugar to the pickling liquid.
6. Herbs and Spices
To add extra flavor, you can add your choice of herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, and black peppercorns.
Instructions
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, let's get started with the recipe:
1. Prepare the Eggplants
Start by washing and peeling the eggplants. Cut them into thin slices or cubes, whichever you prefer. Sprinkle some salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for about an hour. This will help remove the bitterness from the eggplants.
2. Rinse and Dry
After an hour, rinse the eggplants with cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is important as excess water can dilute the pickling liquid.
3. Prepare the Pickling Liquid
In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, sugar, and any herbs and spices of your choice. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer for a few minutes.
4. Layer the Eggplants
In a jar, layer the eggplant slices and garlic cloves. Pour the pickling liquid over the eggplants, making sure they are completely submerged.
5. Let it Sit
Let the pickled eggplants sit for at least 24 hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to develop and the eggplants to fully absorb the pickling liquid.
6. Enjoy!
Once ready, serve the pickled eggplants as a delicious appetizer or side dish. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to a month.
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