Description
Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant is a simple, flavorful side dish featuring tender eggplant slices roasted to golden perfection and infused with bright lemon, fragrant garlic, and fresh parsley. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any meal, adding a healthy and delicious vegetable option that pairs well with a variety of cuisines.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggplant
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Arrange eggplant slices. Lay the 1/2-inch thick eggplant rounds on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap for even roasting.
- Prepare lemon garlic mixture. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to create a fragrant and tangy flavor base.
- Brush eggplant slices. Generously brush both sides of each eggplant slice with the lemon garlic mixture to evenly coat and infuse flavor throughout.
- Roast the eggplant. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the eggplant for 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to ensure an even golden color and tender texture.
- Garnish and serve. Remove the roasted eggplant from the oven and optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- For best results, choose firm, medium-sized eggplants to avoid bitterness and excess moisture.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, try finishing the eggplant slices under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe can be easily doubled to serve a larger crowd.
- To make the dish vegan and gluten-free, ensure no added ingredients contain gluten or animal products beyond those listed.
