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### Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant
– **2 medium eggplants** (about 1 pound each), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
– **4 tablespoons unsalted butter**, melted (or olive oil for a lighter version)
– **4 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano** (or Italian seasoning)
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Fresh parsley**, chopped (for garnish)
– **Grated Parmesan cheese** (optional, for an added flavor boost)
– **Lemon wedges** (optional, for serving)
### Instructions: How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant
#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. This temperature is perfect for getting that golden, crispy texture on the eggplant while keeping it tender on the inside.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Eggplant
Slice the **eggplants** into 1/2-inch thick rounds. If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, you can salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes before patting them dry. This process draws out excess moisture and helps the eggplant absorb more of the flavorful butter mixture.
#### Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the **melted butter**, **minced garlic**, **dried oregano**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth, fragrant mixture. You can also add a touch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat with your garlic butter!
#### Step 4: Coat the Eggplant Slices
Place the eggplant slices on a large baking sheet, making sure they’re spread out in a single layer. Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat each slice with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring that the eggplant is well-covered. This will allow the garlic and butter to infuse the eggplant as it bakes, giving it a rich, savory flavor.
#### Step 5: Bake the Eggplant
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about **25-30 minutes**, or until the eggplant is tender and golden brown around the edges. For extra crispiness, flip the eggplant slices halfway through the baking time.
#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the eggplant is perfectly baked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped **parsley** for a pop of color. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle with a little **grated Parmesan cheese** while the eggplant is still hot. This will melt into the eggplant, adding even more richness and flavor.
You can serve your Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite main course. A squeeze of fresh **lemon juice** just before serving can also enhance the dish with a zesty, refreshing flavor that balances out the richness of the butter.
### Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant
– **Use fresh garlic**: For the most aromatic and flavorful garlic butter, make sure to use freshly minced garlic. Pre-minced garlic often lacks the punch and freshness that homemade garlic offers.
– **Choose the right eggplant**: Look for **firm, shiny eggplants** without any soft spots. Smaller eggplants are often sweeter and less bitter than larger ones, so they might be a better choice if you prefer a milder taste.
– **Customize the seasoning**: While garlic and oregano are a classic combination, you can also experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for a personalized twist on the flavor.
– **Make it dairy-free**: If you’re avoiding dairy, simply replace the butter with **olive oil** and skip the Parmesan cheese. The garlic and olive oil will still give the eggplant a rich, savory flavor.
– **Crispier texture**: For a crispier finish, you can broil the eggplant for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
### Why Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant is a Must-Try
**Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant** is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. It’s a dish that highlights the versatility of eggplant while making it more exciting and flavorful with the richness of garlic and butter. Whether you’re making it as a quick weeknight dinner, a side dish for a special occasion, or a light appetizer, this recipe will surely become a favorite.
Eggplant is often overlooked, but when cooked in this garlic butter recipe, it transforms into a flavorful, satisfying dish that will impress your family and guests. Best of all, it’s healthy, simple to make, and totally customizable, meaning you can enjoy it however you like.
### Conclusion: A Flavor-Packed, Healthy Dish
If you’re looking for a dish that’s full of flavor yet simple to prepare, **Garlic Butter Baked Eggplant** should be at the top of your list. It’s the perfect way to enjoy eggplant in a new, exciting way, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. So next time you’re craving something savory and satisfying, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
