Sesame Eggplant Triangles Recipe for Delicious Snacks

Introduction

The Sesame Eggplant Triangles recipe is an exquisite example of how simple ingredients can come together to create an unexpectedly flavorful and satisfying snack or appetizer. This dish melds the tender, slightly smoky flavor of roasted eggplant with a crunchy, savory coating enriched by parmesan cheese and sesame seeds. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a quick snack, these triangles offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The method involves coating eggplant slices with mayonnaise, then breading them with a mixture of cracker crumbs, parmesan, sesame seeds, and pepper, before baking until golden and crispy. The result is a crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside treat that’s both nutritious and irresistibly tasty. This recipe is featured on Love With Recipes, where culinary creativity shines through simple, achievable steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels while encouraging culinary experimentation and flavor enhancement.

Time

Total preparation and cooking time for this recipe is approximately 39 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or snack. The breakdown is as follows:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 20-22 minutes
• Total Time: 39 minutes

Needed Equipment

To ensure a smooth cooking process, gather the following equipment before starting:

• Oven and Baking Sheet — essential for baking the eggplant triangles
• Mixing Bowls — for preparing the crumb mixture and coating
• Sharp Knife — to slice the eggplant evenly
• Cutting Board — a stable surface for slicing
• Pastry Brush or Spoon — to spread mayonnaise evenly on eggplant slices
• Spatula or Tongs — for flipping the triangles without breaking them
• Measuring Cups and Spoons — to measure ingredients accurately
• Grater (if grating parmesan fresh) — optional, if using grated parmesan
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat — to prevent sticking and facilitate cleanup
• Cooling Rack — optional, for cooling the baked triangles evenly

Tags

Vegetarian, Appetizer, Snack, Easy, Quick, Baked, Crispy, Eggplant, Sesame, Parmesan, Kid-friendly, Party Food, Potluck, Vegetarian-Friendly, Healthy

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 40 triangles, which comfortably serve 8-10 people as a snack or appetizer, assuming about 4 triangles per person. Adjustments can be made based on the number of guests and whether the triangles are served as a main snack or alongside other dishes.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as easy to moderate. It involves straightforward techniques such as slicing, coating, and baking, making it suitable for beginner cooks with some basic kitchen skills. Attention to detail during coating and flipping ensures crispiness and presentation quality.

Allergen Information

This dish contains the following allergens:

• Sesame seeds — a common allergen for some individuals
• Parmesan cheese — dairy allergen
• Cracker crumbs — may contain gluten, soy, or other additives depending on the brand used

Always check labels for allergen information if preparing for allergy-sensitive individuals.

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian, suitable for pescatarians if cheese is plant-based. Not vegan due to cheese and mayonnaise, but can be adapted with vegan substitutes.

Course

Appetizer, Snack, Vegetarian Side Dish

Cuisine

European-inspired, Mediterranean, Vegetarian

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the eggplant will roast evenly and develop a crispy coating without burning. Position the oven racks so that the baking sheet will be centered, allowing heat to circulate uniformly around the triangles for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cracker crumbs, freshly grated parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, and pepper. Use a whisk or fork to mix thoroughly, ensuring that each ingredient is evenly distributed. The cracker crumbs serve as the primary breading medium, providing crunch, while the parmesan and sesame seeds add depth of flavor and texture. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes if you prefer a nuttier flavor, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once toasted, add them to the mixture and stir again.

Step 3: Prepare the Eggplant

Wash the eggplant thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Using a sharp chef’s knife and a stable cutting board, slice the eggplant into rounds approximately 1/4 inch (about 0.6 cm) thick. Consistency in thickness is crucial for even baking and uniform texture. If the eggplant has a large seed cavity, consider removing some seeds with a spoon to prevent bitterness.

Step 4: Coat Eggplant Slices with Mayonnaise

Using a pastry brush or a spoon, apply a thin, even layer of mayonnaise on both sides of each eggplant slice. The mayonnaise acts as a binder, helping the crumb mixture adhere firmly to the surface during baking. Ensure that the coating is not too thick; a light layer is sufficient to achieve both adhesion and moisture retention.

Step 5: Coat Eggplant Slices with the Crumb Mixture

Gently dip each mayonnaise-coated eggplant slice into the crumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure full coverage on both sides. Use your fingers or tongs to help press the crumbs onto the surface, creating a uniform coating. For best results, place the coated slices on a plate or tray as you go, readying them for baking. Avoid overcrowding to prevent uneven coating and sticking.

Step 6: Cut into Triangles

Once all slices are coated, carefully cut each round into four equal triangles. To do this, place each round on the cutting board, and using a sharp knife, cut through the center to form halves, then cut each half diagonally into two triangles. This method creates uniform triangular pieces that are visually appealing and easy to eat. Handling the slices delicately prevents breaking the coating.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Arrange the eggplant triangles on the prepared sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow heat circulation. Proper spacing ensures they bake evenly and develop a crispy exterior without sticking together. Gently press down on each triangle to ensure the coating adheres well, but avoid pressing too hard to prevent the coating from cracking.

Step 8: Bake the Triangles

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown bottom and a crispy exterior. Keep a close eye during this period to prevent over-browning. Use a spatula to gently lift the edges if necessary to check for color. The eggplant should be tender and cooked through, with a firm, crispy coating.

Step 9: Flip and Finish Baking

Carefully flip each triangle using a spatula or tongs, being gentle to avoid breaking the coating. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes. This step ensures both sides are evenly crisped, and the eggplant achieves a tender interior. The total baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the slices. The triangles are done when they are golden and crispy on both sides.

Step 10: Cooling and Serving

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the triangles cool slightly on a wire rack or a plate. Cooling allows the coating to set and become even crunchier. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauces, such as spicy mayo, soy sauce, or a tangy yogurt dip. Garnish with additional sesame seeds or chopped herbs if desired.

Preparation Tips

• Choose fresh, firm eggplants for the best texture and flavor. Avoid soft or overripe ones.
• Uniform slices ensure even baking. Use a mandoline if available for consistent thickness.
• Toast sesame seeds beforehand for enhanced flavor, but this step is optional.
• Use high-quality parmesan cheese for a richer taste. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has more flavor than pre-grated varieties.
• For a healthier version, bake without mayonnaise by brushing eggplant slices with olive oil and seasoning them directly.
• Experiment with spices—adding garlic powder or paprika to the crumb mixture can add extra depth.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For extra crispiness, spray the coated triangles lightly with cooking spray before baking.
• Use a convection oven if available to improve air circulation and enhance crispness.
• Keep an eye on the triangles during baking to prevent burning, especially towards the end of the cooking time.
• If you prefer more flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or basil over the triangles before serving.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the crumb mixture.

Add-ons and Variations

• Top with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet contrast.
• Serve with a side of tahini or hummus for dipping.
• Add chopped nuts such as pistachios or pine nuts into the crumb mixture for extra crunch.
• Make mini versions by using smaller eggplant slices or cutting into smaller shapes.

Side Dishes

• Fresh mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted cherry tomatoes with garlic
• Greek yogurt with herbs
• Platter of assorted dips like hummus, tzatziki, and baba ganoush
• Crusty artisan bread or pita wedges

Improvements

• Try coating the eggplant in beaten egg or buttermilk instead of mayonnaise for different textures and flavors.
• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of cracker crumbs for an even crunch.
• Add finely chopped onions or scallions into the crumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Consider baking the triangles on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet for maximum crispiness and even heat exposure.

Save and Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the triangles on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy. For best results, reheat in a conventional oven or toaster oven.

FAQ

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise or a thin coat of olive oil mixed with a splash of lemon juice. Use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast in place of cheese, and ensure the cracker crumbs are free of dairy and gluten if necessary.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely. Baking yields a healthier, crispy result without the mess of frying. Follow the baking instructions as outlined, and for extra crispness, lightly spray the triangles with cooking spray before baking.

What variations can I try?

Add spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or curry powder to the crumb mixture. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top after baking for a fresh flavor boost.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Ensure a thin, even layer of mayonnaise on the eggplant slices. Press crumbs firmly onto the mayo-coated slices and handle them gently during flipping. Baking at the right temperature also helps set the coating properly.

Conclusion

This Sesame Eggplant Triangle recipe exemplifies how a few simple ingredients, combined with thoughtful techniques, can produce a snack that is both satisfying and versatile. It highlights the beauty of plant-based dishes that are full of flavor and texture, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a quick bite. By experimenting with optional add-ins and flavor variations, you can customize this dish to suit your palate and dietary needs. Remember, the key to success with baked crispy snacks is attention to detail in coating and baking, ensuring a golden, crunchy exterior while maintaining tender, flavorful eggplant inside. This recipe, featured on Love With Recipes, encourages home cooks to explore vegetarian options that don’t compromise on taste or presentation.

References

• “Eggplant recipes,” The New York Times Cooking, https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1012621-eggplant-recipes
• “Sesame Seeds Nutrition Facts,” USDA FoodData Central, https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169910/nutrients