Velvety Roasted Eggplant Dip
Elevate your appetizer game with this irresistible roasted eggplant dip, also known as Baba Ghanouj! This simple yet delightful recipe transforms a humble eggplant into a silky smooth spread bursting with flavor. Perfect as a dip for fresh, crusty bread or pita chips, this dish will wow your guests at any gathering. The roasted garlic adds depth, while a touch of lemon juice brightens everything up. Customize the garlic level according to your preference for a truly personalized experience. In just about an hour, you’ll have a gourmet treat that’s sure to become a favorite!
4
Servings
45
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Medium sized eggplant
1 (Roasted until very soft)
Hellman's light mayonnaise
4 tablespoons (Optional, can substitute with olive oil mayonnaise)
Lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon (Freshly squeezed)
Garlic cloves
2 (Crushed)
Salt
to taste
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Place the whole eggplant on a baking sheet and bake it in the preheated oven until it becomes very soft and the skin is wilted, approximately 1 hour.
3
Once the eggplant is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. When cool enough to handle, peel the skin off and discard. Remove the stem as well.
4
In a food processor, combine the roasted eggplant, mayonnaise (or olive oil mayonnaise), lemon juice, crushed garlic, and a pinch of salt.
5
Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or garlic if desired.
6
Transfer the velvety dip to a serving bowl and enjoy it with your favorite bread, veggies, or crackers!
Nutrition Information
3.5g
Fat
3g
Carbs
0.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Velvety Roasted Eggplant Dip?
It is a smooth, savory spread also known as Baba Ghanouj, made from oven-roasted eggplant, garlic, and lemon.
How long does it take to bake the eggplant?
The eggplant should be baked for approximately 1 hour.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use olive oil mayonnaise instead of light mayonnaise if preferred.
How do I know when the eggplant is done roasting?
The eggplant is ready when it becomes very soft and the skin appears wilted.
Is this eggplant dip recipe vegan?
It can be made vegan by using a vegan-friendly mayonnaise or substituting it with olive oil.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free, provided your mayonnaise choice is certified gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 45 calories.
Can I adjust the amount of garlic used?
Yes, you can customize the garlic level according to your personal preference.
When should I peel the eggplant?
Peel the skin off after the eggplant has been roasted and allowed to cool slightly.
What should I serve with this dip?
It pairs perfectly with fresh crusty bread, pita chips, crackers, or raw vegetables.
Do I need a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, a food processor is used to blend the ingredients until they are smooth and creamy.
How much lemon juice is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Should I remove the eggplant stem?
Yes, the stem should be removed and discarded after roasting.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 3.5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dip?
There are 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this dip contain protein?
Yes, it contains approximately 0.75 grams of protein per serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Transfer the dip to a container and keep it refrigerated.
What size eggplant should I use?
A medium-sized eggplant is recommended for this recipe.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I add more salt to the dip?
Yes, you should taste the mixture after blending and adjust the salt to your preference.
Is this dip considered a healthy snack?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy snack due to its low calorie count and fresh ingredients.
What kind of cuisine does this dip belong to?
This dip is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 5 main ingredients: eggplant, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
Can I make this dip in under an hour?
The total time is just over an hour because the eggplant needs 60 minutes to roast.
Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe with simple preparation steps.
Do I need to chop the eggplant before roasting?
No, you place the whole eggplant on a baking sheet to roast.
What type of garlic should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 crushed garlic cloves.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.