This Mediterranean-style Roasted Eggplant Recipe brings out the natural aromas of eggplant with a simple mix of olive oil and warm spices. It's easy to make, incredibly versatile, and works well with almost anything—from warm pita bread to a hearty grain salad. They are tender and creamy on the inside, lightly crisp on the edges, and full of flavor.
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Roasted eggplant brings warmth and comfort to any meal. You can serve it as a side, as a spread with a simple tahini sauce, or as the base for a hearty Middle Eastern dish like Chicken and Eggplant Fatteh or Vegan Lebanese Eggplant Moussaka.
Why Roasted Eggplant is a Staple in Mediterranean Cooking
Eggplant is one of the star ingredients in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. From Greek Moussaka to Lebanese Mutabal, this vegetable absorbs flavors beautifully and becomes incredibly rich when roasted. It’s packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients that support overall well-being.
Roasting is one of the best ways to cook eggplants. The slightly charred edges add a hint of smokiness, while the inside becomes buttery soft. It's an easy technique that turns a simple ingredient into something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Please scroll down to the recipe card below for the full ingredients list with measurements, complete recipe method, recipe notes, and nutritional information.
- Eggplant – Choose firm, glossy-skinned eggplants with no soft spots. I use 2 large or 3 medium-sized eggplants.
- Olive oil - I prefer using high-quality olive oil with a rich, fruity flavor for cooking, but you can use any oil you like.
- Za'atar - It is a Middle Eastern spice blend made with a combination of dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. You can also add other spices such as cumin, chili, and coriander. It is available to buy from Middle Eastern shops or online from Amazon.
- Tahini - Always make sure to use good quality tahini and give it a good stir before using it as the oil accumulates on top of the sesame paste in time. You can buy them from large supermarkets, and Middle Eastern shops or buy them online from Amazon.
- Yogurt - You will need plain, unsweetened natural or Greek yogurt for the sauce.
- Lemon juice - Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright contrast to the roasted flavors.
How to Make Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant Recipe
Making Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant Recipe is very easy, and straightforward. However, to achieve the best results you need to follow a few simple steps:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel the eggplants in a zebra pattern, quarter them lengthwise, then chop them into 2-3 cm (1") cubes.
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, za'atar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Coat the eggplant pieces thoroughly, ensuring each slice absorbs the flavorful mixture. Using your hands or a pastry brush works best for even coverage.
Spread the seasoned eggplant evenly on a baking dish. Give each piece a little space to allow for proper caramelization.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The eggplant should be golden brown on the outside and tender inside.
To prepare the sauce, mix together tahini, yogurt, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
Once out of the oven, let the eggplant rest for a few minutes before plating. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Recipe Tips From the Chef
- Look for eggplants that are firm with smooth, shiny skin. Lighter eggplants tend to have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor.
- Eggplant absorbs oil quickly, so use a generous amount to ensure a rich, roasted flavor.
- Overcrowding traps steam, leading to mushy pieces. Arrange in a single layer for the best caramelization.
- Make sure to use good quality tahini and give it a good stir before using it as the oil accumulates on top of the sesame paste in time.
Ways to Enjoy Roasted Eggplant
Here are some delicious ways to enjoy Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant:
- As a dip – Mash it up with tahini and lemon for a quick baba ganoush-style spread.
- In a sandwich – Layer it with Mediterranean Hummus Dip and roasted red peppers in a pita.
- With grains – Toss it into quinoa, farro, or couscous for a hearty bowl.
- Topped with yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a cool, creamy contrast.
- To use in Middle Estern recipes – You can use roasted eggplant in Middle Eastern dishes such as Turkish Moussaka - Patlıcan Musakka, Saksuka (Turkish Vegetable Meze), and Chicken and Eggplant Fatteh.
Storage and Reheating
Roasted eggplant keeps well, making it great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium heat. Microwaving is an option, but it may soften the texture.
Recipe FAQs
Cutting the pieces slightly thicker and roasting at a high temperature ensures they hold their shape.
Absolutely! You can check out this Easy Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe for detailed instructions.
Mediterranean flavors like oregano, thyme, cumin, coriander, and sumac complement eggplant beautifully. Fresh parsley or cilantro also make great finishing touches.
Related Recipes
For more delicious ways to use eggplant why not try:
Did you make this recipe? Please let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment below and tag @cookingorgeous on Instagram and hashtag it #cookingorgeous.
I hope you enjoy the process of making this delicious Mediterranean-style Roasted Eggplant Recipe as much as you enjoy eating it! 🙂
Bon appétit! / Afiyet olsun!
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Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 medium eggplants
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon za'atar
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Tahini Sauce
- 2 tablespoon tahini
- 1 cup Greek yoghurt or natural yoghurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- chopped parsley (to garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel the eggplants in a zebra pattern, quarter them lengthwise, then chop them into 2-3 cm (1") cubes.
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, za'atar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Coat the eggplant pieces thoroughly, ensuring each slice absorbs the flavorful mixture. Using your hands or a brush works best for even coverage.
- Spread the seasoned eggplant evenly on a baking dish. Give each piece a little space to allow for proper caramelization.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The eggplant should be golden brown on the outside and tender inside.
- To prepare the sauce, mix together tahini, yogurt, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
- Once out of the oven, let the eggplant rest for a few minutes before plating. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Notes
- Look for eggplants that are firm with smooth, shiny skin. Lighter eggplants tend to have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor.
- Eggplant absorbs oil quickly, so use a generous amount to ensure a rich, roasted flavor.
- Overcrowding traps steam, leading to mushy pieces. Arrange in a single layer for the best caramelization.
- Roasted eggplant keeps well, making it great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
- make sure to use good quality tahini and give it a good stir before using it as the oil accumulates on top of the sesame paste in time.
Anna Kirwan
Quick, easy, and delicious — the tahini sauce complemented the roasted eggplants perfectly.
Ayla Clulee
Thank you Anna, the tahini sauce is so good with many things but especially with roasted eggplants!