Ingredients

1 lb Japanese eggplant
2 tablespoons shallots , thinly sliced
2 tablespoons cilantro , coarsely chopped plus leaves for garnish
2 green onions , thinly sliced
2 teaspoons garlic , coarsely chopped
3 tablespoons fish sauce
3 tablespoons lime juice , freshly squeezed
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon hot green chili peppers or 1 teaspoon dried red chili , coarsely ground
1 tablespoon dried shrimp , coarsely chopped ( optional )
This Thai roasted eggplant salad with cilantro and lime is a flavorful and healthy dish that is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Roasting the eggplants in the oven brings out their natural sweetness and tenderizes the flesh, while the dressing adds a burst of flavor and zing. This salad can be served as a side dish or a main course, and it pairs well with a variety of proteins and grains. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the fresh herbs, makes this salad a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 450°F.
2.Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and score the flesh with a knife in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin.
3.Brush the eggplants with oil and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4.Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and lightly browned.
5.While the eggplants are roasting, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine shallots, cilantro, green onions, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, chili peppers, and dried shrimp (if using). Stir well.
6.Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut the eggplants into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
7.Pour the dressing over the eggplants and toss to coat.
8.Garnish the salad with cilantro leaves and enjoy!

PROS

This Thai roasted eggplant salad is a flavorful and healthy side dish or main course.

Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight management and digestive health.

Cilantro and lime juice are rich in antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and protect against disease.

CONS

Some people may not enjoy the slightly bitter taste of eggplants.

Fish sauce and dried shrimp may not be appealing to all palates.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplants are a great source of fiber, folate, and antioxidants.
They may help improve heart health and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Cilantro and lime juice are rich in antioxidants and may help reduce inflammation and protect against disease.
Fish sauce contains protein and minerals like calcium and phosphorus, although it is high in sodium and should be consumed in moderation.

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