Salată de vinete, or eggplant salad, is a beloved Romanian dish renowned for its rich, creamy texture and robust flavors. This traditional recipe involves roasting eggplants until tender, then blending them with onions, garlic, and either mayonnaise or oil for added richness. The salad is often served as a spread on bread or as a side dish. Its origins can be traced back to Romanian cuisine, where it has been enjoyed for generations as a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for gatherings and everyday meals alike. Its popularity has also spread beyond Romania's borders, becoming a favorite in various parts of Eastern Europe and beyond.

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 3-4 tablespoons mayonnaise or olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Method:

  - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the eggplants on a baking sheet and roast them for 40-50 minutes, or until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft.

  - Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skin and discard.

  - In a bowl, mash the roasted eggplant flesh with a fork or potato masher until smooth.

  - Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and mayonnaise or olive oil to the mashed eggplant. Mix well to combine.

  - Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.

  - Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

  - Serve the eggplant salad as a spread on bread or as a side dish. Enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

Eggplants:

  - Calories: Approximately 20 calories per 100 grams.

  - Carbohydrates: Around 5 grams per 100 grams.

  - Protein: About 1 gram per 100 grams.

  - Fat: Negligible fat content.

  - Sodium: Very low sodium content.

  - Cholesterol: No cholesterol.

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamins C, K, and B6.

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, magnesium, and manganese.

benefits: Eggplants are low in calories and fat, while being rich in fiber and various vitamins and minerals. They also contain antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which may help protect cells from damage.

Onion:

  - Calories: Approximately 40 calories per 100 grams.

  - Carbohydrates: Around 10 grams per 100 grams.

  - Protein: About 1 gram per 100 grams.

  - Fat: Negligible fat content.

  - Sodium: Low sodium content.

  - Cholesterol: No cholesterol.

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C and vitamin B6.

  - Minerals: Rich in potassium and manganese.

benefits: Onions are low in calories and fat, and they contain antioxidants like quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. They also provide fiber and various vitamins and minerals.

Garlic:

  - Calories: Approximately 150 calories per 100 grams.

  - Carbohydrates: Around 33 grams per 100 grams.

  - Protein: About 6 grams per 100 grams.

  - Fat: About 1 gram per 100 grams.

  - Sodium: Low sodium content.

  - Cholesterol: No cholesterol.

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin B1.

  - Minerals: Rich in manganese, phosphorus, and calcium.

benefits: Garlic is low in calories and fat, and it contains compounds like allicin, which may have antibacterial and antiviral properties. It also provides various vitamins and minerals and may have cardiovascular benefits.

Mayonnaise:

  - Calories: Approximately 700 calories per 100 grams.

  - Carbohydrates: Around 3 grams per 100 grams.

  - Protein: About 1 gram per 100 grams.

  - Fat: About 75 grams per 100 grams.

  - Sodium: Moderate sodium content.

  - Cholesterol: Contains cholesterol due to egg content.

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin K and vitamin E.

  - Minerals: May contain small amounts of calcium and iron.

benefits: Mayonnaise is high in calories and fat, primarily from the oil and eggs used to make it. However, it adds creaminess and flavor to dishes. When consumed in moderation, it can contribute to a balanced diet.

Overall, this eggplant salad provides a range of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, while being relatively low in calories and fat.