Description
This Eggplant Caviar Spread is a flavorful and healthy appetizer featuring tender sautéed eggplant mixed with a savory blend of onions, carrots, garlic, and salsa. Perfect served with toasted bread or crackers, this easy-to-make spread combines Mediterranean-inspired ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying dish ideal for gatherings or as a snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium eggplants (1 1/2 to 2 lbs), finely diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 small or 2 medium carrots, grated
- 7 garlic cloves, pressed
Others
- Olive oil (7-8 tablespoons total, divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt (sea salt recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 to 1 cup salsa
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion and Carrot: In a medium skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and grated carrots and sauté, stirring often, until they soften, about 7 minutes. Add the pressed garlic and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Remove the mixture from the heat and set aside.
- Cook the Eggplant: In a second large skillet, heat 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced eggplant, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir and cook uncovered for approximately 10 minutes, stirring often, until the eggplant becomes very soft and tender. Add more oil if the eggplant begins to stick to the pan.
- Combine and Heat: Once the eggplant is soft, stir in 3/4 to 1 cup of salsa along with the sautéed onion and carrot mixture. Mix everything well and heat for about one more minute until the spread is warmed through.
- Serve: Serve the warm eggplant caviar spread with toasted bread slices or your favorite crackers. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For a smoother spread, you can pulse the mixture slightly in a food processor after cooking.
- Adjust the amount of salsa based on desired moisture and flavor intensity.
- Use good quality olive oil for the best taste.
- This spread can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
