Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant

🥗 Description

This Mediterranean lemon garlic roasted eggplant is a simple, flavorful side dish with a bright citrus kick and aromatic garlic. Roasting gives the eggplant a tender, creamy inside with a lightly crisp outside, while lemon and oregano add classic Mediterranean freshness. It’s perfect as a side dish, mezze platter addition, or a healthy topping for salads, wraps, and grain bowls.

🧄 Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into ½-inch rounds or half-moons
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, feta cheese, or chili flakes

🍽️ Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer on the tray.
3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush or toss eggplant slices with the mixture until well coated.
5. Roast for 20–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley, feta, or chili flakes before serving.

📝 Notes

• Salt eggplant slices for 10 minutes before cooking if you want to reduce bitterness and excess moisture.
• Use fresh lemon for best flavor—bottled juice won’t give the same aroma.
• Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet-savory Mediterranean twist.

💡 Tips

• Slice evenly for uniform cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray—eggplant browns best when spaced out.
• For extra crispiness, roast on a wire rack over the baking tray.
• Serve warm or room temperature—both taste amazing.

👨‍👩‍👧 Servings

• Serves: 3–4 people as a side dish

🥗 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 140–160 kcal
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Vitamin C & antioxidants from lemon and eggplant

🌿 Health Benefits

• Heart-healthy: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Rich in antioxidants: Eggplant contains nasunin, which protects cells.
• Digestive support: High fiber content improves gut health.
• Immune boosting: Lemon adds vitamin C.
• Low-calorie & vegan: Perfect for weight management and plant-based diets.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
👉 Yes! Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.

Q: Can I store leftovers?
👉 Yes, refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
👉 Absolutely—use 1 tablespoon fresh oregano.

Q: What can I serve it with?
👉 Grilled chicken, fish, hummus, pita bread, couscous, or quinoa bowls.

Q: Is this keto-friendly?
👉 Yes, it’s low-carb and suitable for keto in moderate portions.