Fried Eggplant Dinner Perfection: Top 5 Side Dishes Revealed
What To Know
- Fried eggplant is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish.
- A classic pairing, the tangy vinaigrette and crisp vegetables in a Greek salad beautifully balance the richness of the fried eggplant.
- A lentil salad with a tangy vinaigrette and fresh herbs adds a protein boost and a satisfying texture to the meal.
Fried eggplant is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. Its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior make it a perfect canvas for a variety of flavors. But what do you serve with fried eggplant to make it a truly satisfying meal?
This blog post explores a range of delicious options to complement your fried eggplant, from classic pairings to more creative ideas. We’ll delve into the world of sides, salads, sauces, and even other main courses that will elevate your fried eggplant dinner to a whole new level.
The Power of Contrast: Side Dishes That Shine
When choosing side dishes for fried eggplant, consider the principle of contrast. The crispy, savory eggplant pairs well with dishes that offer a different texture and flavor profile.
1. Light and Refreshing:
- Greek Salad: A classic pairing, the tangy vinaigrette and crisp vegetables in a Greek salad beautifully balance the richness of the fried eggplant.
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A simple and refreshing salad with a touch of lemon juice and fresh herbs is another excellent choice.
- Arugula Salad with Parmesan: The peppery bite of arugula and the salty richness of Parmesan cheese create a satisfying contrast to the fried eggplant.
2. Hearty and Satisfying:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add a smoky flavor and earthy sweetness to the meal.
- Couscous: Couscous provides a fluffy and neutral base that absorbs the flavors of the fried eggplant and other dishes.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a comforting and hearty contrast to the crispy eggplant.
3. Beyond the Basics:
- Lentil Salad: A lentil salad with a tangy vinaigrette and fresh herbs adds a protein boost and a satisfying texture to the meal.
- Grilled Corn Salad: Sweet grilled corn, red onions, and cilantro create a unique and flavorful side dish that complements the fried eggplant.
- Orzo Pasta Salad: A simple orzo pasta salad with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a Mediterranean twist to the meal.
Sauce It Up: Elevating the Flavor
Fried eggplant is a blank canvas for a variety of sauces. These sauces can add depth, richness, and a touch of heat to the dish.
1. Classic Choices:
- Tomato Sauce: A simple tomato sauce with garlic and herbs is a classic pairing for fried eggplant.
- Marinara: A richer and more complex tomato sauce with a touch of sweetness is another great option.
- Garlic Herb Sauce: A simple garlic herb sauce made with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs adds a fragrant and flavorful touch.
2. A Touch of Spice:
- Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce: For a kick of heat, try a spicy arrabbiata sauce made with chili flakes, garlic, and tomatoes.
- Harissa Sauce: A North African spice paste made with chili peppers, garlic, and spices adds a rich and smoky flavor.
- Sriracha Mayo: A simple combination of sriracha sauce and mayonnaise adds a creamy and spicy kick to the fried eggplant.
3. Creamy Delights:
- Parmesan Cream Sauce: A rich and creamy Parmesan cream sauce adds a decadent touch to the fried eggplant.
- Ricotta Cheese Sauce: A simple ricotta cheese sauce with garlic and herbs is a light and flavorful option.
- Bechamel Sauce: A classic French sauce made with butter, flour, and milk adds a creamy and comforting touch.
Beyond Sides: Complementary Mains & More
Fried eggplant can also be incorporated into other dishes or served alongside other main courses.
1. Fried Eggplant as a Main Course:
- Eggplant Parmigiana: A classic Italian dish featuring layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, cheese, and mozzarella.
- Eggplant Lasagna: A vegetarian twist on lasagna using fried eggplant as the main ingredient.
- Eggplant Rollatini: Fried eggplant slices filled with ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs, then rolled and baked in tomato sauce.
2. Fried Eggplant as a Side Dish:
- Grilled Salmon with Fried Eggplant: The crispy eggplant provides a tasty contrast to the flaky salmon.
- Chicken Parmesan with Fried Eggplant: A classic Italian-American dish with a side of fried eggplant for added flavor and texture.
- Steak with Fried Eggplant: The richness of the steak is perfectly complemented by the savory and crispy eggplant.
3. Beyond the Main Course:
- Fried Eggplant Pizza: A unique pizza topping that adds a savory and crispy element to the usual toppings.
- Fried Eggplant Salad: A delicious and hearty salad featuring fried eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Fried Eggplant Sandwiches: A delicious and satisfying sandwich featuring fried eggplant, tomato, and cheese.
A Culinary Adventure: Explore the Possibilities
Fried eggplant is a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. With a little creativity, you can create a truly unique and delicious meal that will impress your friends and family.
Final Thoughts: A Feast for the Senses
Fried eggplant is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By considering the principle of contrast and exploring different side dishes, sauces, and main courses, you can create a truly satisfying and memorable meal. So go ahead, experiment with different flavors and textures, and discover the endless possibilities of fried eggplant.
What You Need to Learn
1. What is the best way to fry eggplant?
- To fry eggplant, you’ll need to salt the slices to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry, then coat them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs before frying them in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
2. Can I make fried eggplant ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make fried eggplant ahead of time. Simply fry the eggplant as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. What are some good substitutions for fried eggplant?
- If you don’t have eggplant on hand, you can substitute it with other vegetables like zucchini, squash, or bell peppers. You can also use tofu or tempeh as a meatless alternative.
4. What are some healthy ways to prepare fried eggplant?
- You can bake or air-fry eggplant instead of frying it to reduce the amount of oil used. You can also use a light breading or skip the breading altogether.
5. How can I make fried eggplant more flavorful?
- You can add spices, herbs, or garlic to the breading mixture before frying the eggplant. You can also brush the eggplant with a marinade or glaze before frying.
