Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant Crisps

The smell of roasting eggplant with Parmesan reminds me of lazy summer evenings on a friend's balcony in Barcelona, where simple ingredients transformed into something magical. I've recreated that moment in my kitchen countless times since.

Last autumn I made these for a dinner party when I completely forgot to plan an appetizer. My guests kept hovering around the baking sheet, and they disappeared before I could even get them to the serving platter.

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants: Choose firm heavy eggplants with shiny unblemished skin for the best texture and flavor
• 100 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and delivers more intense flavor than pre grated varieties
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: This helps the seasonings stick and promotes even roasting for that perfect golden edge
• 1 tsp dried oregano and 1 tsp dried thyme: These Mediterranean classics bridge the gap between the earthy eggplant and sharp cheese
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: This adds subtle depth and that gorgeous golden color that makes people ask whats in it
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder sea salt and black pepper: The foundational seasoning trio that brings everything together

Instructions

Preheat and prepare:

Heat your oven to 220°C and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Slice and arrange:

Cut eggplants into 1/4 inch rounds and place them in a single layer on the prepared sheets without overcrowding

Season thoroughly:

Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with all the dried spices and seasonings making sure each slice gets coated

First roast:

Bake for 20 minutes flipping halfway through until the eggplant is tender and starting to turn golden

Add the cheese:

Remove from oven and generously sprinkle grated Parmesan over each slice while theyre still hot

Final crisp:

Return to oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to turn golden and crisp

Rest and serve:

Let cool for 3 to 5 minutes so the crisps firm up slightly then garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges

Save

My grandmother always said the simplest dishes reveal the most about a cook. She would have loved how these humble vegetables become something people request at every gathering.

Making Ahead

You can slice and season the eggplant up to a day in advance then store them layered between parchment paper in the refrigerator. Add the cheese just before roasting for the crispest results.

Serving Ideas

These work beautifully as passed appetizers at cocktail hour or arranged on a platter as part of a Mediterranean mezze spread. I sometimes place them on a bed of arugula dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light first course.

Perfect Pairings

A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or dry rosé cuts through the richness perfectly. For non wine options try sparkling water with a twist of lime or an herbal iced tea.

• Pair with warm crusty bread for a heartier appetizer
• Add a bowl of marinated olives to complete the Mediterranean theme
• Consider a drizzle of honey before serving for a sweet and salty variation

Save

Theres something deeply satisfying about turning simple vegetables into something people cant stop eating. These crisps have become my go to for everything from casual weeknight snacks to elegant dinner parties.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve a crispy Parmesan topping?

After roasting the eggplant slices, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan evenly and bake again until it melts and crisps, about 8–10 minutes. For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes.

→ Can I substitute any herbs in this dish?

Oregano and thyme create the Mediterranean flavor here, but you can experiment with rosemary or basil for different aromatic profiles.

→ What type of eggplant is best to use?

Medium-sized globe eggplants sliced evenly into 1/4-inch rounds roast well and maintain tenderness without becoming mushy.

→ Is olive oil essential for roasting?

Brushing eggplant slices with extra-virgin olive oil enhances browning and flavor while helping the herbs stick to the surface.

→ How should I serve these crisps?

Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley or basil and lemon wedges. They pair nicely as a snack or alongside light salads and white wine.