A deliciously versatile ingredient, aubergines can be roasted whole until soft and creamy, layered up in a lasagne, or heroed in veggie curries.
Aubergines are in season from May to October and are at their best in the later summer months. Look out for firm, glossy, and smooth aubergines. To check if an aubergine is ripe, lightly squeeze it with the tips of your fingers – it should spring back if ripe.
Their texture means they are brilliant for soaking up flavour… but also cooking oil, so be aware of this when frying!
Here are 10 tasty aubergine recipes that celebrate the wonderful veg….
Cheesy, oozy and mega-delicious, this is one satisfying recipe. Aubergines are first steamed, then cooked with garlic, chilli, sage and lemon for a boost of flavour, before becoming the most delicious sauce.
Breaded aubergines are first fried, then popped in the oven to bake. Whip up a quick tomato, garlic and basil sauce with spaghetti and you'll have a beautiful dinner in just 30 minutes. What a joy.
This vegan recipe features chunks of tender aubergine nestled in a rich daal with fragrant spices. It’s delicious on its own, mopped up with a naan bread, or enjoyed with rice.
You’re only 20 minutes away from a delicious dinner for two with this quick and easy aubergine recipe. With fresh chilli and crunchy peanuts, this is a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
In this vegan Japanese curry recipe by Meera Sodha, sliced aubergines are coated in panko breadcrumbs and baked until golden and crisp. Then naturally sweet vegetables are paired with store-cupboard essentials to create a smooth, aromatic curry sauce. A total winner.
Easy to rustle up and using just a handful of ingredients, this smoked aubergine and tahini dip is perfect as a snack or starter to share. Serve with chopped veggies or homemade flatbreads for dunking.
This fuss-free veggie pasta packs a real punch, featuring aubergine, chillies, garlic and tomatoes. Plus, you only need 5 ingredients and it’s ready in under 30 minutes – what’s not to love?
Aubergines and ripe tomatoes pair beautifully with crunchy pistachios and fresh coriander in this veggie curry. It’s delicious with rice or poppadoms; but you can also serve it with roast chicken or fish, if you fancy.
This vibrant salad is topped with a pesto-style dressing that is full of sweet, sour and salty flavours. While the aubergine is roasting, you can have a go at making your own flatbread. This dish is great served hot or cold.
Jamie’s take on this classic Malaysian dish, filled with comforting flavours and fragrant spices, is well worth the effort. The perfect Friday night fakeaway.
Hungry for more? Check out our collection of amazing aubergine recipes here.
Watch Jamie cook up his 'Happiness Pasta' from his book, Everyday Super Food.
