Spiced Peppers and Eggplant

A Mediterranean-inspired side dish featuring tender sweet peppers and eggplant seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and optional saffron. Finished with fresh basil and a splash of red wine vinegar for brightness.

4 servings
24 min

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic cloves
  • ¾ teaspoon coriander seeds, crushed
  • ¾ teaspoon cumin seeds, crushed
  • 1 pinch saffron threads
  • 4 whole sweet peppers
  • 2 whole baby eggplants
  • 1 to taste Kosher salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, coriander, cumin, and saffron, if using; cook, stirring often, until garlic is softened, about 4 minutes. Add sweet peppers and eggplants; season with salt and pepper. Cook, tossing occasionally, until vegetables are tender, 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and add vinegar. Just before serving, add basil and toss to combine.

    24 min

  2. 2.

    DO AHEAD: Vegetables can be cooked 4 days ahead. Cover; chill. Bring to room temperature before adding basil and serving.