eggplant

Eggplant is an ingredient I rarely cook with. Since it's currently in season, I'm trying to use it more. I'm starting with this classic Italian preparation, known by some as pasta a la Norma. The sauce is made from fresh tomatoes and shallow-fried eggplant. It's seasoned with basil leaves and lots of cheese. I plan on serving mixed greens on the side and a full-bodied, unoaked Chardonnay. Want to see the recipe I'm using? It's vegetarian-friendly and can be found right here.

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When the weather is incredibly hot, I crave crunchy, cool vegetables and flavorful salads. However, after a month and a half of Summer, the same old salad can get boring. This recipe takes the salad concept and translates it into a fork and knife meal. Instead of being tossed together, the ingredients are artfully layered, making a dish that is beautiful to look at and fun to eat. Besides being a no-fuss weeknight meal, this veggie stack is also great at a luncheon. It can be plated hours before serving. Sound interesting? Check out the recipe.

After yesterday's hearty grilled eggplant parmigiana, I've got a surplus of eggplant. Thankfully, I came across a unique recipe that I can't wait to make. A tossed pasta and vegetable combo that uses Italian staples such as pappardelle and eggplant with Asian flavor notes like rice vinegar and soy sauce. My dinner companions will love the symphony of textures: the sweet snap of snow peas, crunchy red bell peppers, tender eggplant, and toothsome al dente ribbon pasta. Make this impressive Monday night meal when you read more

Today, I'm planning a popular Italian-American supper, eggplant parmigiana. To prove that it can be just as enjoyable in warm weather as it is comforting in Winter, I'll be keeping my oven turned off and making use of the grill grates instead — grilling adds a smoky flavor to an already substantive vegetable. When preparing this dish, be sure to slice the eggplant right before using to prevent any discoloration. Enjoy an unconventional preparation of this classic after the break