Go Back
+ servings
Close-up of charred eggplant dip – Creamy roasted eggplant dip drizzled with olive oil and topped with pine nuts and parsley in a black bowl.
RATE THIS RECIPE
0
Ratings
Print Pin

Eggplant Dip with Capers and Pine Nuts

Smoky and creamy charred eggplant dip with Italian-inspired flavors. An easy roasted eggplant dip recipe that’s adaptable, flavorful, and perfect for entertaining.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 144kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants about 2 pounds total
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling
  • 1-2 garlic cloves grated or very finely minced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon capers drained
  • 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts for garnish (optional)
  • Crostini, pita chips, crackers, or raw veggies for dipping

Instructions

  1. Preheat a grill to high heat.
  2. Place the whole eggplants directly over the flame or on the grill grates. Char them on all sides, turning occasionally, until the skin is blackened and the flesh feels collapsed and very soft, about 20-25 minutes depending on size. You can also do this over a wood fire, charcoal grill, gas burner or under a broiler.
  3. Transfer the eggplants to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap, a kitchen towel or foil, or place in a paper bag. Let them steam for 10-15 minutes to loosen the skins.
  4. Once cool enough to handle, peel away the charred skin and discard any large seed pockets.
  5. Add the eggplant flesh the bowl of a food processor, then add the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano and red pepper flakes. Pulse several times to combine and blend until you reach your desired consistency.
  6. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then add the capers and parsley and pulse one or two more times to combine.
  7. Spoon into a shallow serving bowl and smooth out the top. Drizzle with more olive oil and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.
  8. Serve with grilled bread, crostini, or raw vegetables.

Notes

  • Taste as you go when blending the eggplant mixture for the best flavor.
  • If using overly large eggplants, slice in half and salt the soft flesh to remove excess moisture and bitterness. Roast them with only the skin side facing the heat.
  • For smoother texture, keep blending the eggplant mixture in the food processor until very creamy.

Nutrition

Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 42mg | Potassium: 389mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 125IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1mg
QR Code linking back to recipe