Easy Baba Ganoush In 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 long purple Italian eggplant or 2 globe eggplant, cut in half lengthwise
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 cup tahini, plus more for serving
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, grated
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving
• Sumac, for serving
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts, for serving

Optional additions:

• 1/4 cup chopped spinach or kale
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Score eggplant: Using a paring knife, score the flesh of each eggplant into a diamond pattern, being careful not to puncture through the skin.
3. Season eggplant: Drizzle the baking sheet with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil on the scored side of each eggplant. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Place the eggplant cut side down on the baking sheet.
4. Roast eggplant: Place in the preheated oven and cook for 40-50 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized on the bottoms. To test for doneness, they should pierce easily with a paring knife. Allow them to cool slightly until you can handle them without burning your hands.
5. Mash eggplant: Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh of the eggplant and place in a large bowl. Discard the skins. Using a fork, mash the eggplant pulp until very smooth.
6. Add remaining ingredients: Add 1/4 cup tahini, remaining 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 cloves grated garlic, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, and any optional additions. Stir very well. Taste and adjust seasoning as you like.
7. Serve: Transfer to a shallot bowl for serving. Drizzle with an additional tablespoon of olive oil. Garnish with sumac, toasted pine nuts, and chopped parsley. Serve with pita chips or as part of a larger Middle Eastern spread.

Optional additions:

• For extra flavor: Add spinach, kale, red pepper flakes, or ground cumin.
• For a richer texture: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• For a spicier kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

Enjoy your delicious Baba Ganoush!