Romanian Aubergine Salad – Salata de Vinete Recipe
A traditional Romanian dish, Salata de Vinete is a creamy, smoky aubergine (eggplant) salad made with roasted aubergines, onions, and mayonnaise. Perfect as a spread for fresh bread, this simple yet delicious dish is a staple in Romanian cuisine.
Ingredients
- 3-4 thin and long aubergines (eggplants)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 tbsp high-quality mayonnaise (or homemade)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Lemon juice for added freshness
Instructions
Roast the Aubergines:
- On the Grill: Place the aubergines over an open flame or charcoal grill. Turn occasionally until the skin is blackened and charred (about 45-60 minutes).
- In the Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake on a lined tray for 45-60 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Pro Tip: Pierce the aubergines with a fork before roasting to prevent them from bursting.
Peel and Drain:
- Remove the charred skin while the aubergines are still warm (use gloves if needed).
- Place the peeled aubergines in a colander and drain for at least 2 hours to remove any bitterness.
Chop and Mix:
- Finely chop the drained aubergine flesh.
- In a bowl, mix the chopped aubergines with finely chopped onions, mayonnaise, and salt to taste.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for a few hours before serving—it tastes best cold.
- Serve spread over fresh bread.
Notes
A Taste of Home: Traditional Romanian Aubergine Salad 🌿🌱
Salata de Vinete, or Romanian Aubergine Salad, is a beloved dish that has been passed down through generations ❤️. This creamy 🍾️, smoky 🌭️ spread holds a special place in Romanian cuisine, often bringing back memories 🥰 of family gatherings and warm, home-cooked meals 🍽️. It is a dish frequently prepared in Romanian households, evoking nostalgia and tradition. Even those who are not typically fans of aubergines 🍆 might find themselves pleasantly surprised by the irresistible flavor of this dish! With a rich, smoky taste 🌭️, a creamy texture 🧁, and a hint of sweetness from caramelized onions 🧅, this Romanian classic remains simple yet delightful 🍲.The Secret to the Best Romanian Aubergine Salad 🎭
The magic of Salata de Vinete lies in how the aubergines are roasted ✨. The best way to achieve that authentic smoky taste is to roast them over an open flame 🌟, preferably on a charcoal 🌿 or wood-burning grill 🌱. If that is not an option, roasting them in the oven 🔬 is a good alternative. For the best results, it is recommended to select long, slim aubergines 🍆 rather than short, fat ones, as they roast more evenly and have a better texture for the salad. Traditionally, this salad is made with homemade mayonnaise 🍾️ from egg yolks, oil 🌾, and lemon juice 🍋. While this remains the authentic method, many choose to use high-quality store-bought mayonnaise to save time without compromising flavor 😋.Serving Ideas 🍞
Salata de Vinete is typically served family-style 🤝, placed in the center of the table with fresh bread 🍞 for spreading. 🌟 Enhance the presentation!- Garnish with cherry tomato slices 🍅 or a sprinkle of fresh parsley 🌿.
- Traditionally, some prepare decorative patterns 🖌️ on the surface using a fork before serving, adding a personal touch to the presentation! 🧁
How to Store Aubergine Salad 💧
The aubergine salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge 🧊 for up to 3 days. For longer storage, roasted, peeled, and drained aubergines 🍆 can be frozen in sealed bags 💾 for months, making it easy to prepare this dish at any time! 🍔Final Thoughts 🌟
This Romanian Aubergine Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack 🍽️. Whether prepared using the traditional method or simplified with store-bought mayo, the result remains delicious! Try making it and experience the authentic flavors of Romania! 😋👌 More Romanian recipes