Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplants with Spiced Yogurt Sauce – A Culinary Delight for Vegetarians

Allergens

Contains no common allergens unless specified.

Ingredients

• 6 large eggplants
• 2 cups chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1 cup chopped yellow squash
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Spiced Yogurt Sauce:
• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon sumac (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch shell. Chop the removed flesh and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1/3 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and the reserved eggplant flesh to the skillet. Cook for 5 7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still hold their shape. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in basil and parsley.
4. Fill each eggplant shell with the vegetable mixture, and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 25 minutes or until eggplants are tender.
5. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, cumin, paprika, sumac (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Remove the stuffed eggplants from the oven and top each with a generous dollop of the spiced yogurt sauce. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Chef’s Insight

Using a mix of colors for the vegetables creates a more vibrant dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The key to this recipe is balancing flavors, so don't be shy with seasoning.

Notes

For a more traditional touch, use Turkish-style yogurt (called "Yayla Yogurtu") in the spiced yogurt sauce.