Ina Garten Eggplant Dip Recipe
This Ina Garten Eggplant Dip Recipe is a simple, creamy and flavorful appetizer that feels elegant and comforting. It is inspired by classic Mediterranean flavors and made with roasted eggplant, garlic and olive oil. This dip is smooth, rich and perfect for sharing with family or guests.
Ingredients
- Large eggplants
- Garlic cloves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Tahini
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Eggplant
- Wash eggplants and cut them in half lengthwise. Score the flesh lightly to help even roasting.
Season the Eggplant
- Brush eggplant flesh with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the surface.
Add Garlic
- Place whole garlic cloves on the baking sheet near eggplant halves for roasting.
Roast in Oven
- Roast eggplant and garlic at 200°C until very soft and lightly browned.
Cool Slightly
- Remove from oven and let eggplant cool for ten minutes before handling.
Scoop the Flesh
- Scoop roasted eggplant flesh into a food processor. Discard the skins carefully.
Add Roasted Garlic
- Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into the processor with the eggplant flesh.
Add Flavor Ingredients
- Add tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Blend Until Smooth
- Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Scrape sides if needed for even texture.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the dip and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed.
Rest the Dip
- Let the dip rest for ten minutes to allow flavors to blend nicely.
Garnish and Serve
- Transfer to a bowl. Drizzle olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For best flavor, choose firm and shiny eggplants with no soft spots.
- Always roast eggplant until very soft or the dip will taste grainy.
- If you like smoky flavor, roast eggplant directly on a grill.
- You can add a pinch of cumin for warmth.
- For a lighter version, reduce tahini slightly.
- If you want a chunky dip, pulse instead of blending fully.
- Add Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Chili flakes work well if you enjoy mild heat.