Salad with Fried Eggplant, Tomatoes, and Cream Cheese

Source: Â Natalia Hanin, AdobeStock

Some salads can easily replace a full dinner thanks to their rich flavor and successful combination of textures. Fried eggplant makes this salad especially hearty, while fresh tomatoes and cream cheese add juiciness and freshness. We're sharing a great recipe!

Prep time: 40 minutes.
Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 2 eggplants;
• 3 tomatoes;
• 100 g cream cheese;
• 2 cloves garlic;
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch;
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil;
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze;
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper;
• 1 teaspoon salt;
• vegetable oil for frying.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Wash and cut the eggplants into large sticks. Salt them, leave for 10-15 minutes, then rinse again and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Cut the tomatoes into large wedges, roughly chop the basil, and press the garlic through a garlic press.
3. Dredge the eggplants in cornstarch and fry in a pan for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Transfer them to paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. Afterward, combine the fried eggplants with tomatoes, basil, and garlic, and mix gently.
5. Spoon the cream cheese on top, drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze, season with pepper, and serve immediately.