To tell you the truth, my daily meals are boring. With my hectic schedule, there isn’t much variety in the spice of my life right now. I stick to a lot of hearty soups, stews and steamed veg mixtures to keep me full and nourished.
Last week, I was in the grocery store and decided I needed to switch things up a bit. Eggplant isn’t a vegetable that’s normally in my diet. It’s a member of the nightshade family of plants, which can induce inflammation, so I tend to stay away from it.
Despite its inflammatory properties, eggplant is a very healthful food. It’s got a wide array of vitamins and minerals and is especially high in a phytonutrient called nasunin, a potent antioxidant that fights free radicals, protects brain cells from damage and improves circulation by chelating excess iron.
So once in a while, I have a little craving for it and indulge myself.
This roasted eggplant dip is a breeze to make and is simple and creamy. The raw garlic definitely gives it kick – if that’s not your thing than feel free to roast the garlic instead.
How do you dig yourself out of a food rut?
Roasted Eggplant Dip
1 eggplant
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp salt
Preheat the oven to 350. Cut the eggplant in half, then place it face down on a baking sheet lined with a silpat or parchment paper. Rub the olive oil on top of the eggplant.
Roast in the oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the eggplant can be easily pierced with a fork.
Once the eggplant has cooled, toss it into a food processor with the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Sounds tasty… When in a food rut I find walking around the grocery store/market often helps for inspiration! Trying out a new vegetable, fruit. Especially as the weather gets warmer – produce at farmer’s markets is awesome!
I splurged a few weeks ago and bought a spiralizer – that has brought a lot of fun to vegetables and encouraged me to make some raw creations!
Mmm, I love baba ghanoush! Actually, I used to dislike it until I made it myself. As with most foods, homemade is much better! Pinterest is a great food rut cure-there is so much inspiration to be found!
That sounds great! When I am in a cooking rut I dig into my cookbooks and instantly have 10 things I want to make.
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