Indulge in the flavors of summer with these easy-to-make vegan eggplant recipes, all of which are plant-based and gluten-free, so you can savor each bite without worrying about the consequences. Whether you’re craving a refreshing stuffed eggplant or a rich curry, these dishes are sure to satisfy your taste buds while keeping you on track with your health goals.
For even more summer inspiration, be sure to check out our collections of vegan zucchini recipes, pasta salad recipes, and side dishes, all of which offer delicious and nutritious options perfect for hot summer days. And if you’re planning a summer party, don’t miss our roundups of vegan BBQ and 4th of July recipes, packed with tasty ideas for impressing your guests.
Vegan Bean Eggplant Casserole
If you’re on the hunt for a speedy and satisfying dinner solution that’s sure to please both you and your loved ones, look no further than this scrumptious eggplant casserole recipe. By combining canned beans, diced tomatoes, and a pinch of spice with your prepped eggplant, you’ll be treated to a flavorful feast in a flash. The smoky depth provided by smoked paprika and the subtle kick from chili powder are just the icing on the cake – or should we say, the sprinkle on top! This hearty casserole is sure to become a staple in your household.
Thai Basil Eggplant
Indulge in a culinary delight as the vibrant colors of this vegetable stir fry come alive on your plate. The harmony between bell peppers, basil leaves, and eggplant is elevated by the bold and aromatic sauce, expertly blended with hoisin, soy, and chili sauces to deliver an authentic Asian-inspired flavor profile that will leave you craving more.
Vegan Eggplant Rollatini Stuffed with Couscous
Indulge in the culinary delight of combining Italian and Middle Eastern flavors in one dish. The fusion recipe features tender eggplant wraps smothered in rich marinara sauce, packed with fluffy couscous and crunchy toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor. This mouthwatering meal eliminates the need to choose between the two cuisines, offering a harmonious blend of Mediterranean flair.
Miso Glazed Eggplant Kebabs with Kale Seaweed Salad
Immerse yourself in the rich, savory world of umami flavor with this innovative twist on a timeless Japanese side dish. By cooking eggplant into bite-sized pieces on skewers, the robust miso glaze can coat every morsel evenly, while a refreshing salad adds an abundance of nutrients without overpowering the dish’s natural flavors.
Vegan Eggplant Shakshuka
For those new to the culinary delights of North Africa, this shakshuka recipe serves as an ideal introduction. A vibrant tofu scramble, bursting with flavor, sits atop a rich and thick tomato sauce teeming with an array of colorful vegetables. The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily customize it to incorporate your favorite vegetables, making mealtime planning a breeze.
Stuffed Miso Eggplant
The visual appeal of the dish is elevated by piling a fresh salad on top, not only adding a burst of flavor but also providing a pop of color. Meanwhile, chopped walnuts contribute a satisfying meaty texture to the stuffing of these eggplant boats, allowing the subtle flavor of the raw nuts to complement the bold Japanese seasonings.
Vegan Eggplant Curry with Chickpeas and Tofu
For many families, including mine, there’s no such thing as too many curry recipes. The medley of flavors in this dish has even won over those who typically shy away from eggplant. With a cooking time that clocks in at just over 30 minutes, this recipe is an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Roasted Eggplant Mushroom Salad
A symphony of earthy flavors comes together in this delectable starter salad or side dish, featuring the rich essence of mushrooms and toasted pine nuts. Fresh thyme leaves add a savory depth, while olive oil provides a smooth richness. The crowning glory is a sweet and indulgent drizzle of pure date syrup, elevating the entire composition to new heights. What’s more, this recipe requires minimal preparation time, making it an ideal option for busy home cooks.
Vegan Moroccan Salad Bowl with Eggplant
In the Lazy Cat Kitchen, a medley of vibrant flavors converge to create a delectable salad that showcases the harmonious union of eggplant and zucchini. Cucumber, ripe olives, and cherry tomatoes blend seamlessly with chopped fresh mint leaves, tangy preserved lemon slices, and aromatic Moroccan spices. A satisfying accompaniment is provided by couscous and chickpeas, leaving you feeling content and fulfilled.
Spinach Salad with Smoky Grilled Eggplant
Imagine savoring a spinach salad that embodies the essence of summer, with the smoky undertones of grilled eggplant and smoked paprika perfectly balanced by an abundance of fresh herbs. This delectable creation is elevated by a refreshing homemade lemony dressing, making it a guilt-free indulgence for warm-weather gatherings.
Low Carb Vegan Eggplant Bites
Indulge in the delightful harmony of textures and flavors as you savor these gluten-free and low-calorie eggplant slices, elegantly coated in a rich almond flour breading. Elevate their culinary appeal by topping them with a creamy almond sauce and an assortment of your preferred vegetables. The result is a truly satisfying dining experience that’s sure to leave you beaming.
Garlicky Eggplant and Potatoes in Tomato Sauce
The vibrant flavors in this potato and eggplant meal serve as a testament to the power of garlic – it’s impossible to overdo it! The aromatic richness of curry powder and the tanginess of tomatoes beautifully complement the bold, pungent taste of garlic, making this dish a weeknight staple that will leave you craving more.
Vegan Eggplant Black Bean Potato Rollatini
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with this scrumptious vegan recipe that’s perfect for satisfying the cravings of your loved ones or guests. These delectable roll-ups are surprisingly easy to prepare, boasting a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newcomer, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Baked Eggplant with Garlicky, Spicy Lentils
Elevate the humble baked eggplant from ordinary to extraordinary by infusing it with a depth of flavor and freshness. This recipe’s rich flavors are easily achieved through the use of fresh herbs, allowing you to multitask during the brief prep time, leaving you plenty of time for other activities while your dish bakes to perfection.
Vegan Eggplant Spinach Quinoa Bowl
With Melanie Cooks’ one-bowl masterpiece, you’ll be treated to a culinary trifecta: simplicity, flavor, and nutritional value. This convenient meal can be prepared ahead of time, refrigerated, and then enjoyed as a satisfying, guilt-free lunch at your leisure.
Baked Eggplant with Warm Quinoa Tabbouleh
As the warmth of summer approaches, my appetite shifts towards light and refreshing meals that can be easily digested in the heat. One such dish is this baked eggplant recipe, which gets a boost from wild garlic pesto’s earthy flavors. To round out the meal, I add a quinoa tabbouleh salad bursting with sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and aromatic spices – a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
Roasted Vegan Eggplant Coconut Curry
Eggplant’s unique ability to absorb and complement the flavors of a curry makes it an ideal addition to this rich and creamy recipe. The generous use of ground spices and coconut milk creates a depth of flavor that is expertly balanced by the eggplant’s subtle sweetness.
Spicy Quinoa Stuffed Aubergine
For those who, like me, are obsessed with discovering recipes that remain delectable hours after cooking, this mouthwatering dish is a game-changer. Its leftover potential is truly impressive, as it’s equally enjoyable when reheated or served chilled. Moreover, the majority of its components can be prepared in advance, streamlining the preparation process even further.
Vegan Eggplant Sushi
If the thought of savoring the same vegan sushi rolls for the umpteenth time has you feeling uninspired, it’s time to shake things up with an inventive recipe that will transport your taste buds to a whole new level. At its core is a unique filling made by marinating and slightly charring eggplant – a game-changer for anyone looking to add some excitement to their sushi repertoire. While these rolls do require a bit of effort, the payoff is well worth the investment: each bite is a masterclass in texture and flavor that will leave you wondering how you ever settled for boring old vegan sushi in the first place.
Eggplant Teriyaki Stir-Fry with Tofu
The essence of a successful stir-fry lies in its sauce. A well-balanced teriyaki sauce, infused with the richness of balsamic vinegar, can elevate an eggplant and tofu stir-fry from ordinary to extraordinary. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your family craving more. I’m confident you’ll be requested to recreate this dish multiple times!
Sweet Potato Pizza with Roasted Eggplants
Imagine sinking your teeth into a savory sweet potato pizza crust, crispy on the outside and fluffy within – the perfect accompaniment to tender eggplant slices roasted to perfection with just the right amount of seasoning. The subtle smokiness from slightly charred red peppers adds depth, while a drizzle of rich pesto brings everything together in a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making for a satisfying meal whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones.
Mediterranean Eggplant Boats
Elevate your culinary game with these delectable eggplant boats, ideal for showcasing in-season vegetables. The versatility of this recipe lies in its ability to be easily customized to suit individual tastes. A zesty tahini dressing not only complements the natural nuttiness of the eggplant but also adds a rich depth to the dish, making it a standout on any menu.
Miso Glazed Japanese Eggplant
Indulge in the simplicity and sophistication of this mouthwatering miso-glazed Japanese eggplant recipe. A quick and easy meal that’s bursting with flavor, it can serve as both a satisfying main course and a stunning side dish, perfect for impressing dinner guests with its elegant presentation.
Eggplant Puttanesca
When it comes to dishes that capture the essence of summer without sacrificing flavor, puttanesca is an excellent choice. By incorporating the rich flavors of olives, capers, and red pepper flakes into an eggplant-based sauce, you can create a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The resulting sauce is a perfect balance of salty, vibrant, and slightly spicy, making it a great option for a warm-weather meal.
Air-fryer Eggplant
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crispy slice of eggplant that’s been elevated from humble ingredient to star of the show. It may seem like an unusual candidate for culinary greatness, but trust us, once you master the art of cooking it just right, you’ll find endless ways to incorporate it into your favorite dishes. Whether it’s served as a satisfying side, paired with pasta and sauce, or even taking center stage as a main course on its own, eggplant has a surprising knack for winning over even the most discerning palates.
Eggplant Sandwich
While perusing the world of sandwiches, one might initially overlook the potential of incorporating eggplant into the mix. However, this underrated vegetable can surprisingly elevate the dish with its unique flavor profile. A clever application of a sweet and smoky marinade further amplifies the eggplant’s taste, making it an unexpectedly scrumptious addition to this humble sandwich.
Aubergine Meatballs
These delectable vegan meatballs pack a savory punch thanks to their blend of eggplant, breadcrumbs, olives, and an array of spices. With the umami flavor they impart, you can elevate your meal game by using them in a classic marinara sauce with pasta, or take them on-the-go in a sandwich or tossed into a fresh salad.
Eggplant Lasagna
Whoever thinks lasagna requires traditional pasta sheets is mistaken. By substituting thinly sliced eggplant, you can create a dish that not only tastes better but also provides a healthier alternative. The outcome is a flavorfully rich, satisfying, and nutritious meal.
Garlic Eggplant Stir-Fry
This vibrant eggplant stir-fry, infused with the bold flavors of ginger and garlic, is a culinary delight that thrives in warm weather. With its zesty sauce, it’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
Baba Ganoush without Tahini
While some may find the process of making baba ganoush daunting, the truth is that this delicious dip is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. In its vegan form, it boasts a rich, smoky flavor profile that’s perfectly balanced by a tangy and refreshing quality. Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying snack with chips or crackers, or something a bit more wholesome like veggies or pita, this recipe has got you covered.
Harissa Aubergine Traybake
The simplicity of a traybake is unparalleled – especially with this stunning aubergine variation that requires minimal effort yet yields breathtaking results. Not only does it emerge from the oven looking resplendent, but its flavor equally impresses, making it a true showstopper.
Vegan Eggplant Sausage Rolls
Eggplant’s robust texture and rich flavor make it an ideal meat substitute, perfectly showcased in these vegan eggplant sausage rolls. Flaky, buttery, and bursting with flavor, they’re versatile enough to satisfy as a snack, a meal, or even at a picnic – their appeal is undeniable.
Persian Eggplant Stew
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Persian-inspired stew by incorporating eggplant into your recipe. The addition of aromatic spices like cumin, mint, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon creates a depth of flavor that’s nothing short of incredible. Imagine tender vegetables swimming in a creamy broth, infused with the warmth of these carefully chosen spices.
Chinese Vegetable Curry
With a simple twist, you can turn a traditional curry into an effortless and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. My go-to recipe features eggplant as the star of the show, but feel free to get creative and swap out the veggies or use seasonal ingredients to give it your own unique spin.
Vegan Unagi from Eggplant
In Japan, unagi – a traditional eel dish – is renowned for its sweet and savory flavors. However, in this innovative vegan twist, we’re replacing the eel with eggplant, which surprisingly elevates the dish’s overall taste profile. A unique culinary creation that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Turkish Stuffed Eggplant
With its meaty texture and versatility in the kitchen, it’s no wonder that eggplants are a popular choice for stuffing. One Turkish recipe in particular stands out for its rich flavors and aromas, which come together to create a truly decadent dish. The use of fresh spices and vegetables adds depth and complexity to this warm and satisfying recipe.
Roasted Thai Eggplant
Indulge in the essence of summer with this delectable roasted Thai eggplant recipe. The combination of a sweet and salty marinade and the freshness of mint creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner option that’s packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor.
Vegan Milkfish Steak
Elevating the flavor profile, eggplant takes center stage as a delectable alternative to fish. The bangus steak’s harmonious blend of savory and sweet notes is further enhanced by its stunning presentation on the plate.
Summary
Discover the versatility of vegan eggplant recipes, perfect for a plant-based and gluten-free summer dinner. With a variety of options such as stuffed eggplant, curry, and more, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re looking for a quick 15-minute prep or a leisurely 45-minute cook time, these recipes offer a range of options. Enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with friends and family, served up in just one hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. This American-inspired cuisine serves six, so gather your loved ones around the table and indulge in the flavors of summer.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.