Make lemon garlic roasted eggplant that’s tender and flavorful. This easy vegan side dish is perfect for dinners or meal prep.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Roast: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant, cubed or sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
Firstly, preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray.
Next, whisk olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
Then, toss eggplant with the mixture until evenly coated.
After that, spread the eggplant in a single layer on the tray.
Meanwhile, roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Finally, remove when golden and tender. Serve warm.
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Extra Crispy: Sprinkle with cornstarch before roasting.
- Oil-Free: Roast with vegetable broth instead of oil.
- Herby: Add thyme or oregano.
- Spicy: Add chili flakes.
- Mediterranean: Finish with tahini drizzle or olives.
🌿 Benefits of Lemon Garlic Roasted Eggplant
Firstly, eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber.
Secondly, it supports digestion and heart health.
Moreover, garlic provides immune-boosting properties.
In addition, lemon adds vitamin C and freshness.
As a result, this dish is light yet satisfying.
Finally, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Version
- Firstly, reduce garlic and lemon intensity.
- Then, cut eggplant into small cubes.
- Next, roast until very soft.
- Finally, serve with mild dip or rice.
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
