Marinated Baby Eggplants with Pine Nuts and Raisins ๐๐ฐ๐
Introduction:
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Marinated Baby Eggplants with Pine Nuts and Raisins! This recipe combines tender baby eggplants with the rich crunch of pine nuts and the sweet burst of raisins, all marinated to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a festive Christmas brunch or craving a quick European-inspired dish, this recipe promises to impress in under 30 minutes! Let’s dive into the delightful journey of flavors!
Ingredients:
- 12 baby eggplants
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 3 tablespoons raisins
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 164.7
- Fat: 10.8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 6.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 17.5g
- Fiber: 9.4g
- Sugar: 7.8g
- Protein: 3.1g
Instructions:
| Time | Description |
|---|---|
| 10 minutes | Preheat the Grill: Begin by preheating your grill to high heat. This ensures that it’s ready to impart that delicious smoky flavor to our baby eggplants. |
| 12 minutes | Grill the Eggplants: Place the baby eggplants, cut side up, on a grill pan. Lightly brush them with a drizzle of olive oil. Grill for about 10 minutes, or until they develop a slight char, remembering to flip them halfway through for even cooking. This step adds a wonderful smokiness and tenderness to the eggplants. |
| – | Prepare the Marinade: While the eggplants are grilling, let’s prepare the flavorful marinade. In a clean, screw-top jar, combine the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, pine nuts, raisins, sugar, bay leaves, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Secure the lid and give it a good shake to mix all the ingredients thoroughly. This aromatic blend will infuse our eggplants with layers of deliciousness. |
| – | Marinate the Eggplants: Once the eggplants are grilled to perfection, transfer them to a heatproof earthenware or glass bowl. Pour the prepared marinade generously over the hot eggplants, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the eggplants to cool in the marinade, giving them a gentle toss once or twice to ensure every bite is infused with flavor. This resting period allows the eggplants to absorb all the savory goodness of the marinade. |
| – | Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled to room temperature, these marinated baby eggplants are ready to grace your table. Arrange them beautifully on a platter, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired, and serve as a delightful appetizer or side dish. The combination of tender eggplants, crunchy pine nuts, and plump raisins will surely tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests craving for more! |
Serving Suggestions:
- These Marinated Baby Eggplants with Pine Nuts and Raisins are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive Christmas gathering or a casual brunch with friends.
- Pair them with crusty bread or serve alongside grilled meats for a wholesome meal.
- For added flair, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or freshly chopped parsley on top before serving.
Conclusion:
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a culinary masterpiece that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Elevate your dining experience with these Marinated Baby Eggplants with Pine Nuts and Raisins, and watch as each bite transports you to a world of gastronomic delight! Enjoy the compliments and revel in the joy of sharing this delectable dish with your loved ones. Cheers to good food and great company! ๐ฅ
