Discover the rich, smoky flavors of authentic Baba Ghanoush with this easy-to-follow recipe. Made with roasted eggplant, creamy tahini, fresh garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil, this Middle Eastern dip is perfect as an appetizer or a healthy snack. Learn how to create the perfect Baba Ghanoush that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Ideal for pairing with pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants

- 2 tablespoons tahini

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- Salt, to taste

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Smoked paprika, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick the eggplants with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft.

- Once the eggplants are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel off the charred skin and scoop out the flesh into a bowl.

- Mash the eggplant flesh with a fork or blend it in a food processor for a smoother texture.

- Add the tahini, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice to the mashed eggplant. Mix well until combined.

- Season with salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning or lemon juice as needed.

- Transfer the Baba Ghanoush to a serving dish and drizzle with a little extra olive oil. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of smoked paprika, if desired.

- Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious and smoky Baba Ghanoush!

Nutritional Values:

Eggplants (1 cup, cooked):

- Calories: 35

- Protein: 0.8 grams

- Carbohydrates: 8.6 grams

- Fiber: 2.5 grams

- Fat: 0.2 grams

Benefits:

- Rich in antioxidants: Eggplants contain nasunin, which helps protect cells from damage.

- Heart health: The fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in eggplants support heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood circulation.

- Low in calories: They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight management.

Tahini (2 tablespoons):

- Calories: 180

- Protein: 5 grams

- Carbohydrates: 6 grams

- Fiber: 1.5 grams

- Fat: 16 grams (mostly unsaturated fats)

Benefits:

- Good source of protein: Tahini provides a good amount of plant-based protein.

- Healthy fats: It contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.

- Rich in calcium: Tahini is high in calcium, supporting bone health.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

- Calories: 240

- Protein: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Fiber: 0 grams

- Fat: 27 grams (mostly monounsaturated fats)

Benefits:

- Heart health: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are linked to a lower risk of heart disease.

- Anti-inflammatory properties: It contains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols with anti-inflammatory effects.

- Skin health: Olive oil helps maintain healthy skin due to its nourishing properties.

Garlic (2 cloves):

- Calories: 9

- Protein: 0.4 grams

- Carbohydrates: 2 grams

- Fiber: 0.1 grams

- Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

- Immune support: Garlic has antimicrobial properties and can boost the immune system.

- Heart health: It helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

- Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds like allicin with anti-inflammatory effects.

Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 4

- Protein: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 1 gram

- Fiber: 0 grams

- Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

- Vitamin C: Lemon juice is high in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.

- Digestive health: It aids digestion and helps balance stomach acids.

- Detoxification: Lemon juice promotes the elimination of toxins from the body.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish, 1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 1

- Protein: 0.1 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0.2 grams

- Fiber: 0.1 grams

- Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

- Rich in vitamins: Parsley is high in vitamins A, C, and K, which support overall health.

- Antioxidant properties: Contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.

- Digestive health: Parsley aids in digestion and has diuretic properties.

Enjoy the rich flavors and health benefits of this nutritious Middle Eastern dip!