Try this mouthwatering recipe for baked eggplant with crunchy cashews. The creamy and tender eggplant slices are topped with a flavorful mixture of cashews, herbs, and spices, resulting in a dish that is both healthy and satisfying. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delectable meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 cup cashews, crushed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for 15 minutes to help draw out excess moisture.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the crushed cashews, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to form a crumbly mixture.
- Rinse the salt off the eggplant slices and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the cashew mixture evenly over each eggplant slice.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the cashew topping is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Interesting Facts
Eggplants are a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from curries to pasta sauces.
Cashews are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
This recipe is gluten-free and can be easily customized by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the cashew topping.