Belle Nature CSA — farm fresh vegetable boxes from Farmington, MN

From Our Farm

Eggplant

Eggplant has mild, absorbent flesh that becomes creamy when roasted and meaty when grilled.

Eggplant

How it compares to Zucchini and mushrooms

It is spongier than zucchini and absorbs seasoning like mushrooms, but cooks to a richer, creamier texture.

Storage & handling

  • Choose glossy, firm fruit without soft spots.
  • The flesh browns after cutting; cook promptly.
  • Salting is optional but can reduce moisture before frying.

3 Ways to Cook Eggplant

Roasted Eggplant ParmesanLayered eggplant with tomato sauce and cheese.+

Ingredients

  • 2 eggplants
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 2 cups mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 425 degrees F.
  2. Slice eggplant and brush with oil.
  3. Roast 20 minutes, turning once.
  4. Layer with sauce and cheeses.
  5. Bake at 375 degrees F for 25 minutes.

Recipe adapted from Illinois Extension

Baba GanoushSmoky roasted eggplant dip.+

Ingredients

  • 2 eggplants
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt

Instructions

  1. Roast whole eggplants at 450 degrees F until collapsed.
  2. Cool and scoop out flesh.
  3. Drain excess liquid.
  4. Blend with tahini, lemon, garlic and salt.
  5. Drizzle with oil and serve.

Recipe adapted from Serious Eats

Grilled Eggplant SteaksThick savory slices for a side or sandwich.+

Ingredients

  • 1 large eggplant
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Instructions

  1. Cut eggplant into thick rounds.
  2. Brush with oil and season.
  3. Heat grill to medium-high.
  4. Grill 4 to 5 minutes per side.
  5. Serve when browned and tender.

Recipe adapted from Food Network Kitchen

Want Eggplant in your box?

Every Belle Nature CSA box is grown in Farmington, MN, harvested within 24 hours of delivery, and comes with recipes like these. Reserve your 12-week farm share for the Twin Cities.

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A CSA farm in Farmington, MN delivering farm-fresh, seasonal vegetable boxes across Minneapolis, St. Paul & the Twin Cities metro.
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