20 Italian Eggplant Antipasto Recipe Deliciousness Awaits You!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
In addition to its delicious taste, eggplant is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is often used in Italian cooking. One of the most popular ways to enjoy eggplant in Italy is in the form of antipasto, a traditional appetizer that is served before a meal. This Italian eggplant antipasto recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavor and texture, making it the perfect addition to any dinner party or gathering. Let's dive into the details of how to make this delectable dish.
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Onion, Garlic, Chopped Green Bell Pepper
While Beer Can Chicken may be the star of the show, it's always good to have some delicious side dishes to accompany it. This Eggplant Antipasto is the perfect addition to any Beer Can Chicken feast. Simply slice up some eggplant and grill it until tender. Then, top it with a mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. The result is a flavorful and refreshing dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the chicken.
2of 20
Italian-Style Grilled Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Eggplants, Salt, Freshly Ground
If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, then you'll love this Italian-Style Grilled Eggplant. This dish takes grilled eggplant to the next level by topping it with a flavorful mixture of roasted red peppers, olives, and feta cheese. The combination of tangy, salty, and creamy flavors is the perfect contrast to the rich and savory Beer Can Chicken.
3of 20
Eggplant Caponata
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Kosher Salt, Olive Oil, Celery, Bulb Fennel
Another delicious Italian-inspired dish, Eggplant Caponata is a sweet and savory relish that is traditionally served as an appetizer. However, it also makes a great accompaniment to Beer Can Chicken. Made with eggplant, onions, tomatoes, olives, and capers, this dish is bursting with flavor and adds a nice touch of freshness to any meal.
4of 20
Italian Sausages with Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chopped Onion, Garlic, Zucchini, Eggplant
If you're looking to add some protein to your Beer Can Chicken meal, consider pairing it with some Italian Sausages with Ratatouille. This hearty and flavorful dish is made with grilled sausages, eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes. It's a great way to add some variety to your meal while still staying true to the Italian theme.
5of 20
Caponata alla siciliana (Sicilian Eggplant Antipasto)
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Celery, Onion, Tomatoes, Salt, Pepper
For a more traditional take on Eggplant Antipasto, try this Caponata alla siciliana. This classic Sicilian dish is made with eggplant, celery, tomatoes, olives, and capers, and is often served as an appetizer. However, it's also a great side dish for Beer Can Chicken, adding a burst of flavor and freshness to the meal.
6of 20
Italian-style Antipasto
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Eggplant, Red Pepper, White Onion, Tomatoes
For a heartier side dish, try this Italian-style Antipasto. Made with grilled eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, this dish is packed with flavor and texture. It's also a great way to get your daily dose of veggies while indulging in some delicious Beer Can Chicken.
7of 20
Antipasto Submarine Salad Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Mortadella, Genoa Salami, Capicola, Mozzarella
Looking for a way to use up any leftover Beer Can Chicken? Look no further than this Antipasto Submarine Salad Sandwich. Simply shred the chicken and combine it with a mixture of grilled vegetables, olives, and provolone cheese. Stuff it in a sub roll and you've got a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner.
8of 20
Italian Grilled Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Italian Parsley, Garlic, Olive Oil
Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most delicious. That's certainly the case with this Italian Grilled Eggplant. Just slice up some eggplant, brush it with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until tender. It's the perfect side dish for Beer Can Chicken, allowing the flavors of the chicken to truly shine.
9of 20
Antipasto Salad
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Asian Eggplant, Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves
If you're a fan of salads, then this Antipasto Salad is a must-try. Made with a variety of grilled vegetables, olives, and salami, this salad is packed with flavor and is a great way to get your greens in while enjoying your Beer Can Chicken. You can even add some shredded chicken to make it a more filling and satisfying meal.
10of 20
Simple Italian Fried Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Canola, Large Eggs, Flour, Salt
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy some delicious Eggplant Antipasto, try this Simple Italian Fried Eggplant. Simply slice up some eggplant, dip it in a mixture of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, and fry until golden and crispy. It's a quick and easy way to add some variety to your Beer Can Chicken meal.
11of 20
Italian Layered Vegetable Casserole
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Medium Zucchini, Chopped Parsley, Onion
For a hearty and comforting side dish, try this Italian Layered Vegetable Casserole. Layered with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese, this dish is a delicious and satisfying accompaniment to Beer Can Chicken. It's also a great way to use up any extra vegetables you have on hand.
12of 20
Italian Eggplant Ricotta Bake
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Small Onion, Garlic, Eggplant, Large Tomato
This Italian Eggplant Ricotta Bake is a must-try for cheese lovers. Made with layers of eggplant, ricotta cheese, and tomato sauce, this dish is rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. It's the perfect side dish for Beer Can Chicken, adding a touch of decadence to your meal.
13of 20
Eggplant Cacciatore
Main Ingredients: Italian Eggplant, Olive Oil, Penne Pasta, Cremini
For a twist on the classic chicken cacciatore, try this Eggplant Cacciatore. It's made with eggplant, bell peppers, mushrooms, and tomatoes, and is bursting with flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with Beer Can Chicken, adding a touch of Italian flair to the meal.
14of 20
Italian Eggplant Grilled Cheese
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Sandwich Bread, Butter, Garlic Powder
For a fun and delicious twist on a classic sandwich, try this Italian Eggplant Grilled Cheese. Layer slices of grilled eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce between two slices of bread, and grill until golden and crispy. It's a great way to use up any leftover Beer Can Chicken and makes for a satisfying and indulgent meal.
15of 20
Eggplant Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Olive Oil, Sea Salt, Fresh Ground Black
Who says lasagna has to be made with noodles? This Eggplant Lasagna is a delicious and healthier alternative, using grilled eggplant slices in place of pasta. Layered with tomato sauce, cheese, and crumbled Beer Can Chicken, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
16of 20
Simple Moist Italian Fried Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Canola, Large Eggs, Flour, Salt
For a quick and easy side dish, try this Simple Moist Italian Fried Eggplant. Simply slice and fry the eggplant until golden and tender, and serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It's the perfect accompaniment to Beer Can Chicken, adding a touch of crunch and freshness to the meal.
17of 20
Grilled Vegetable and Tortellini Antipasto Salad
Main Ingredients: Cheese Tortellini, Medium Zucchini, Eggplant, Red
This Grilled Vegetable and Tortellini Antipasto Salad is a meal in itself. Made with a variety of grilled vegetables, tortellini, and salami, this salad is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for summertime dining. It's also a great way to use up any leftover Beer Can Chicken.
18of 20
Paleo Italian Breaded Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Large Egg, Arrowroot Flour, Sea Salt, Ground
If you're following a paleo or gluten-free diet, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of Beer Can Chicken and Eggplant Antipasto. This Paleo Italian Breaded Eggplant uses almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a crispy and flavorful coating, making it a great side dish for any Beer Can Chicken meal.
19of 20
Italian Vegetable Casserole
Main Ingredients: Italian Bread, Butter, Italian Sausage, Onion, Cloves
This Italian Vegetable Casserole is a great way to use up any leftover Beer Can Chicken. Simply combine eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes with some chicken broth and herbs, and bake until tender and flavorful. It's a delicious and easy way to add some variety to your Beer Can Chicken feast.
20of 20
Eggplant Casserole
Main Ingredients: Chinese Eggplants, Medium Tomatoes, Crushed Tomatoes
For another tasty casserole option, try this Eggplant Casserole. This dish is made with layers of grilled eggplant, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, creating a flavorful and comforting meal that pairs perfectly with Beer Can Chicken. It's a great way to use up any extra eggplant you have on hand.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Eggplant: 2 medium sized
Tomatoes: 2 large
Onion: 1 medium
Garlic: 2 cloves
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon
Italian herbs: 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper: to taste
Garnish
Fresh basil leaves: for topping
Crumbled feta cheese: for topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplant
Start by washing and drying the eggplants. Cut them into 1 inch thick slices and sprinkle some salt on them to draw out the excess moisture. Let them sit for 15 minutes and then pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the eggplant slices, tomatoes, onion, and garlic cloves on the sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the eggplant slices halfway through, until they are tender and lightly browned.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix together balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Assemble the Antipasto
Once the vegetables are done roasting, let them cool for a few minutes. Then, arrange them on a platter, alternating between eggplant, tomatoes, and onion. Drizzle the dressing over the top.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
Garnish the antipasto with fresh basil leaves and crumbled feta cheese. You can also add some olives or roasted peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Your Italian eggplant antipasto is now ready to be served! This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a great option for any occasion. It's also a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors will continue to develop when refrigerated. Serve it as an appetizer or as a side dish with your favorite Italian meal. Buon appetito!
Conclusion
This Italian eggplant antipasto recipe is a must-try for all eggplant lovers. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it's a dish that will impress your family and friends. Plus, it's a healthy and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you!