Seasonal snacking: Yummy eggplant recipes

We love eating in season and the summertime is when some of our favourite veggies start making appearances at local farmer’s markets and grocery stores. Eggplant is a veg that is often overlooked– uncooked it can be bland and boring, but prepared the right way it’s absolutely delicious.

1) Baked eggplant with pistachio pesto and goat cheese

Nothing says “summer is coming” like a gorgeous seasonal veggie stack. To simplify this recipe, you can use store-bought pesto instead of making your own.

2) Roasted eggplant and chickpea soup

Craving something hearty? This soup packs a punch of vegetable protein with chickpeas and is best with a dollop of greek yogurt on top.

3) Glazed eggplant with sesame seeds and chives

Cut into bite-size morsels these Asian-inspired eggplant bites are a fantastic side dish.

4) Easiest grilled eggplant

The quickest way to perfect eggplant? Grill it up on your panini press! Eggplant grilled cheese, eggplant with avocado mash–the options are endless.

5) Eggplant bruschetta

Bruschetta is one of the easiest ways to elevate any dinner up a notch. This recipe is perfect as an appetizer for a dinner party, or a side for a family supper.

6) Spinach, eggplant and feta quinoa

If you’re a frequent peruser of Canadian Running magazine, you know that we love our quinoa. And what’s not to love? It’s a vegetarian protein option with all of your essential amino acids, it’s gluten free and versatile. Plus, if you make a batch, it stores well for lunch the next day.

7) Eggplant chips

Craving a salty treat but trying to stay away from junk food? Whip up a batch of eggplant chips for a guilt-free snack.

8) Eggplant pizza

This is lower-cal version of pizza is also gluten free, simple and quick to make.

9) Sauteed eggplant and mozzarella

This dish makes for a hearty vegetarian meal. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and bake, making it ideal for busy work nights.

10) Eggplant bacon

That’s right. Eggplant. Bacon. Welcome to a world where you can have 60 slices of ‘bacon’ for 40 calories.