Serves :3-4

INGREDIENTS:

• Coconut oil
• 2 large eggplants, cut into large chunks
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• Sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely sliced
• 1 small bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, leaves picked and stalks finely chopped
• 2 tbsp. salted capers, rinsed, soaked and drained
• 1 handful green olives, stones removed
• 2-3 tbsp. lemon juice
• 5 large ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
• Coconut oil
• 2 tbsp. slivered almonds, lightly toasted (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant chunks, dried oregano, a pinch of sea salt, and some freshly ground black pepper to the pan. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is lightly browned and tender.
3. Stir in the finely chopped onion, sliced garlic, and the finely chopped parsley stalks. Continue cooking for another few minutes until the onions become translucent and the flavors meld.
4. Add the drained capers and the olives to the pan. Pour in the lemon juice and let it cook until all the liquid has evaporated.
5. Now, add the roughly chopped tomatoes to the mixture. Simmer the mixture until the tomatoes become tender and break down slightly.
6. Taste the mixture and season with additional sea salt and olive oil as per your preference.
7. To serve, transfer the cooked eggplant mixture to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle the slivered almonds over the top for added crunch and flavor.

Enjoy this delicious eggplant dish as a flavorful and healthy side or serve it as a main dish over couscous or quinoa for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

ALLERGIES:

SF (Shellfish-Free)

GF (Gluten-Free)

DF (Dairy-Free)

Here are some variations of the eggplant recipe:

1. Spicy Eggplant Delight: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cooking process for a spicier version. You can also garnish with chopped chili peppers for an extra kick.
2. Mediterranean Twist: Enhance the Mediterranean flavors by adding a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to the finished dish.
3. Herb-Infused Eggplant: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the aroma and taste of the dish. Mix in the herbs during cooking or sprinkle them over the top before serving.
4. Roasted Eggplant: Instead of cooking on the stovetop, roast the eggplant chunks in the oven until they are caramelized and tender. This will give the dish a slightly smoky flavor.
5. Eggplant and Chickpea Curry: Add some cooked chickpeas to the eggplant mixture and incorporate curry powder or garam masala for a flavorful Indian-inspired twist.
6. Greek Eggplant Casserole: Layer the cooked eggplant mixture with slices of potatoes and zucchinis. Top with a layer of béchamel sauce and bake in the oven for a comforting Greek-style casserole.
7. Asian Eggplant Stir-Fry: Stir-fry the eggplant with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce for an Asian-inspired version. You can also add sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas for added crunch and color.
8. Eggplant and Tomato Pasta: Serve the eggplant mixture over your favorite pasta and toss it together with a simple tomato sauce for a delightful pasta dish.
9. Eggplant Tapenade: Pulse the cooked eggplant mixture in a food processor to create a smooth tapenade. Serve it as a spread on crusty bread or use it as a dip for veggies.
10. Eggplant Stuffed Peppers: Use the cooked eggplant mixture as a filling for bell peppers and bake them in the oven until the peppers are tender and the flavors meld.