16 Italian Eggplant Fritters Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
Aside from pizza and pasta, eggplant is one of the staple ingredients in Italian cuisine. This versatile vegetable is often used in dishes such as Parmigiana and Caponata. However, have you ever tried eggplant in fritter form? If not, then you're in for a treat. This Italian eggplant fritters recipe will surely become a new favorite in your kitchen. With its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful center, these fritters are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make. So let's dive into this delicious recipe.
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Eggplants, Salt, Freshly Ground
This grilled eggplant recipe is a perfect addition to any Italian-themed meal. The smoky flavor of the grilled eggplant pairs well with the tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. To make this dish, slice the eggplant into rounds and grill until tender. Top with your favorite marinara sauce, some fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pop it under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve as a side dish or a main course with a side of pasta and crusty bread.
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Eggplant Caponata
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Kosher Salt, Olive Oil, Celery, Bulb Fennel
Caponata is a classic Italian dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, onions, and capers. It's a sweet and sour relish that pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a topping for bruschetta. To make this dish, sauté diced eggplant, onions, and garlic until tender. Add in diced tomatoes and a splash of red wine vinegar. Simmer until the flavors are well combined. Stir in some capers and fresh herbs, and serve as a flavorful and versatile condiment.
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Italian Sausages with Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chopped Onion, Garlic, Zucchini, Eggplant
Ratatouille is a traditional French dish, but this Italian-inspired version adds a delicious twist. Start by grilling or roasting Italian sausages until cooked through. In a separate pan, sauté diced eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions until tender. Add in some diced tomatoes and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Simmer until the vegetables are soft and flavorful. Serve the ratatouille over the grilled sausages for a hearty and delicious meal.
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Italian Grilled Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Italian Parsley, Garlic, Olive Oil
Grilling eggplant is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Slice the eggplant into rounds and brush with olive oil. Grill until tender and lightly charred. Sprinkle with some fresh herbs and drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Serve as a side dish or use the grilled eggplant in sandwiches, wraps, or on top of pizza for a healthy and flavorful alternative to meat.
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Simple Italian Fried Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Canola, Large Eggs, Flour, Salt
Fried eggplant is a classic Italian dish that is simple to make and bursting with flavor. To make this dish, slice the eggplant into rounds and dredge in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Fry until golden and crispy. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of marinara sauce for dipping. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a side dish for any Italian meal.
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Italian Layered Vegetable Casserole
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Medium Zucchini, Chopped Parsley, Onion
This vegetable casserole is a great way to use up any leftover grilled or roasted vegetables. Start by layering sliced eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions in a baking dish. Top with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve as a delicious and healthy side dish or a vegetarian main course.
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Italian Eggplant Ricotta Bake
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Small Onion, Garlic, Eggplant, Large Tomato
This eggplant bake is a delicious and satisfying vegetarian dish. Start by slicing the eggplant into rounds and grilling or roasting until tender. In a separate pan, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and your favorite Italian seasoning. Layer the eggplant and cheese mixture in a baking dish, and top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of pasta for a complete meal.
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Eggplant Cacciatore
Main Ingredients: Italian Eggplant, Olive Oil, Penne Pasta, Cremini
Cacciatore means "hunter" in Italian, and this dish typically features chicken or rabbit. This eggplant version is a delicious vegetarian twist on the classic dish. Start by sautéing diced eggplant, onions, and bell peppers until tender. Add in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and your favorite Italian seasoning. Simmer until the flavors are well combined. Serve over pasta or with a side of crusty bread for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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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 version adds a tasty twist. Start by grilling slices of eggplant until tender. Layer the eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite Italian deli meats between two slices of bread. Grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or enjoy as a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner.
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Eggplant Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Olive Oil, Sea Salt, Fresh Ground Black
This eggplant lasagna is a lighter and healthier alternative to the traditional meat-based version. Start by slicing the eggplant into thin strips and grilling until tender. In a separate pan, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and your favorite Italian seasoning. Layer the eggplant and cheese mixture in a baking dish, and top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve as a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal.
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Simple Moist Italian Fried Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Canola, Large Eggs, Flour, Salt
Fried eggplant can sometimes turn out dry, but this recipe ensures a moist and flavorful result every time. To make this dish, slice the eggplant into rounds and dredge in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Fry until golden and crispy. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of marinara sauce for dipping. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a side dish for any Italian meal.
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Paleo Italian Breaded Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Large Egg, Arrowroot Flour, Sea Salt, Ground
For those following a Paleo diet, this breaded eggplant recipe is a great alternative to traditional fried eggplant. To make this dish, mix together almond flour, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Dredge the eggplant slices in the mixture and fry until golden and crispy. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or use the breaded eggplant in sandwiches or wraps for a satisfying and healthy meal.
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Italian Vegetable Casserole
Main Ingredients: Italian Bread, Butter, Italian Sausage, Onion, Cloves
This vegetable casserole is a great way to use up any leftover grilled or roasted vegetables. Start by layering sliced eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions in a baking dish. Top with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve as a delicious and healthy side dish or a vegetarian main course.
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Eggplant Casserole
Main Ingredients: Chinese Eggplants, Medium Tomatoes, Crushed Tomatoes
This eggplant casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Start by sautéing diced eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions until tender. Mix in some cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for added protein. Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of pasta for a complete meal.
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Italian Quinoa Casserole
Main Ingredients: Quinoa, Olive Oil, Vegetable Stock, Eggplant, Coarse
For a healthier twist on traditional Italian dishes, try this quinoa casserole. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and mix in diced eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve as a protein-packed and flavorful vegetarian meal.
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Italian-style Antipasto
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Eggplant, Red Pepper, White Onion, Tomatoes
An antipasto platter is a classic Italian appetizer that features a variety of meats, cheeses, and vegetables. To make an Italian-style antipasto, layer grilled eggplant slices with cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, and a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan. Add in some marinated vegetables, such as roasted bell peppers and artichoke hearts, for a flavorful and impressive appetizer.
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Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Bread Crumbs, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Egg
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is always a crowd-pleaser. To make this dish, slice the eggplant into rounds and dredge in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Fry until golden and crispy. Layer the fried eggplant with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of pasta for a hearty and delicious meal.
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Italian Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Vine Ripened Tomatoes, Zucchini, Yellow Squash
Ratatouille is a traditional French dish, but this Italian-inspired version adds a delicious twist. Start by sautéing diced eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions until tender. Add in diced tomatoes and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Simmer until the flavors are well combined. Serve the ratatouille over pasta or with a side of crusty bread for a tasty and satisfying meal.
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Chicken Sorrentino
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, All Purpose Flour
Sorrentino is a classic Italian dish that features chicken, eggplant, and prosciutto. To make this dish, start by sautéing thinly sliced chicken breast until cooked through. In a separate pan, sauté sliced eggplant until tender. Layer the chicken, eggplant, and prosciutto in a baking dish. Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of pasta for a hearty and delicious meal.
- 1 large eggplant, peeled and diced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplant:
- Place the diced eggplant in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Rinse the eggplant and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Fritter Batter:
- In a large bowl, mix together the beaten egg, flour, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, oregano, and basil.
- Add the diced eggplant to the batter and stir until well coated.
3. Fry the Fritters:
- Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the eggplant batter into the skillet.
- Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chopped parsley, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the fritters hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
- Enjoy these delicious Italian eggplant fritters as an appetizer or snack, and savor the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine.
By adding a twist to the classic eggplant, this recipe showcases the versatility of this beloved Italian ingredient. These fritters are a great way to introduce a new way of enjoying eggplant, and they are sure to impress your family and friends. So why not give this recipe a try and add it to your repertoire of Italian dishes? Buon Appetito!
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