Eggplant and Olive Relish is a versatile condiment that enhances the flavors of various dishes, from grilled meats to sandwiches. This Mediterranean-inspired relish combines the rich, smoky flavor of eggplant with the tangy notes of olives, creating a savory accompaniment that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re planning a casual gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises to elevate your meal with its vibrant taste and easy preparation.
Recipe Details
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 2 cups
Aggregated Rating: 5 (from 3 reviews)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 663.5
- Total Fat: 58.3g
- Saturated Fat: 8.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 253.7mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38.2g
- Dietary Fiber: 21.2g
- Sugars: 15.4g
- Protein: 6.7g
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants
- Salt (for degorging)
- 125ml olive oil
- 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 55g kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 tbsp oregano leaves, chopped
Instructions
-
Degorge the Eggplant:
- Coarsely chop the eggplants and sprinkle them lightly with salt.
- Place the chopped eggplants in a colander and let them stand for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Rinse the eggplants under cold water, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
-
Cook the Relish:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add the drained eggplants, diced capsicum, and minced garlic to the pan, stirring to coat with olive oil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes or until the eggplant has softened and the mixture has thickened to a relish-like consistency.
-
Finish the Relish:
- Once cooked, transfer the relish to a bowl and allow it to cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped kalamata olives and oregano leaves.
-
Serving:
- Serve the relish warm or at room temperature.
- It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled lamb or chicken, or can be used as a flavorful spread in sandwiches or wraps.
Recipe Notes
- Degorging: Degorging the eggplant helps remove bitterness and excess moisture, ensuring a better texture in the final relish.
- Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil for sautéing the vegetables to impart a rich flavor to the relish.
- Storing: This relish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving leftovers.
Dietary and Lifestyle Information
This Eggplant and Olive Relish recipe caters to various dietary preferences and lifestyles:
- Vegan: Contains no animal products.
- Low Protein: Suitable for individuals on low-protein diets.
- Low Cholesterol: Cholesterol-free, making it heart-healthy.
- Healthy: Provides a good source of fiber and essential nutrients.
- Easy and Inexpensive: Perfect for beginner cooks and those looking for budget-friendly meal solutions.
Flavor Profile
The combination of roasted eggplant, sweet red capsicum, pungent garlic, briny olives, and aromatic oregano creates a complex flavor profile that is both savory and slightly tangy. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a relish that is robust and full-bodied, making it a delightful addition to a variety of dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this Eggplant and Olive Relish:
- Spread on crusty bread slices or use as a dip for breadsticks.
- Spooned over grilled lamb chops or chicken breasts for a Mediterranean twist.
- Layered in sandwiches or wraps with fresh greens and cheese for added depth of flavor.
- As a topping for bruschetta or crostini at your next gathering or potluck.
Conclusion
With its simplicity and versatility, this Eggplant and Olive Relish recipe is a must-try for any home cook looking to add a touch of Mediterranean flair to their meals. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a larger spread for guests, this relish is sure to impress with its robust flavors and healthy ingredients. Try it out and discover how a few simple ingredients can elevate your culinary creations!
