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Eggplant Caponata

Savor the Flavor: Homemade Eggplant Caponata Delight

Eggplant Caponata is a traditional relish bursting with sweet and tangy goodness, perfect for various diets.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Sautéed Vegetables
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil a must-have for sautéing; it brings flavor and richness.
  • 1 cup Chopped celery adds a delightful crunch and a refreshing note.
  • 1 cup Chopped onion creates a sweet flavor foundation when sautéed.
  • 3 cloves Minced garlic enhances aroma and zest; don’t skip this essential step.
  • 1 medium Eggplant, unpeeled, diced the star of Eggplant Caponata, it absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
For the Tomato Base
  • 14 ounces whole tomatoes (partially drained) this adds moisture and acidity to balance the sweet-tart profile.
  • 1 cup Sliced olives a splash of briny goodness that deepens the overall flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Red wine vinegar brings bright tanginess and elevates the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste intensifies the tomato essence for that rich taste.
For the Flavor Boosters
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped capers they offer a salty punch that enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 handful Fresh basil provides a fragrant herbal note; substitute with dried basil if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar helps balance acidity; feel free to omit if you prefer less sweetness.
  • Salt essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste for the perfect finish.
  • Black pepper essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste for the perfect finish.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • cast iron pan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat a large skillet or cast iron pan over high heat for about 2 minutes.
  2. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the skillet and add chopped celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic, sautéing for 4-5 minutes.
  3. Incorporate 1 medium eggplant, diced and unpeeled, into the pan and sauté for another 3-4 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the tomatoes, sliced olives, red wine vinegar, and tomato paste.
  5. Add chopped capers, sugar, and fresh basil, then season with salt and black pepper. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Eggplant Caponata can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.

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