Baked Eggplant Caponata with Pine Nuts and Basil
Prep Time: 25 min · Cook Time: 40 min
Vegetables
- 2 medium eggplants, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 clove garlic, minced
Seasonings and Extras
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
Preparing the Eggplant
- Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
- Place the diced eggplant in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
- Rinse the eggplant under cold water to remove the salt, then pat dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Cooking the Vegetables
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautΓ©ing until the onion becomes translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Add the diced bell pepper, celery, and tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.
- Stir in the eggplant cubes and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the eggplant to soften and the flavors to meld.
Baking and Finishing Touches
- Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the red wine vinegar over the vegetable mix, stirring well to ensure even distribution.
- Add the capers, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
- While the caponata is baking, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Once the caponata is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Stir in the honey for a hint of sweetness.
- Just before serving, fold in the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top for a delightful crunch.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, accompanied by whole-grain crostini or as a standalone appetizer.
- Enjoy this flavorful, healthy Italian appetizer with friends and family!
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