Name: Sicilian Eggplant Caponata
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, diced; 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more as needed); 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes or 1 can diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp capers, rinsed; 1/3 cup green olives, chopped; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tbsp sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Sicilian Eggplant Caponata is a sweet and tangy vegetable medley featuring eggplant, tomatoes, olives, and capers. This vibrant dish can be served warm or cold, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Origin Sicilian Eggplant Caponata

Caponata hails from Sicily, an island in southern Italy known for its rich blend of Mediterranean flavors. The dish reflects Sicily’s history of culinary influence from the Arabs, Greeks, and Spanish, with ingredients like vinegar, sugar, and olives giving it a unique agrodolce (sweet and sour) taste. Traditionally, it was served as a main course for the poor, but today it’s enjoyed globally as a side dish, appetizer, or even a topping.

What I Love About This Recipe

Caponata is an explosion of flavor and texture. The tender eggplant absorbs the sweet and sour sauce beautifully, while the capers and olives give it that briny punch. It’s even better the next day, making it perfect for prepping ahead. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and incredibly healthy!

Sicilian Eggplant Caponata

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: Recipes

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

280

kcal

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, diced
1/4 cup olive oil (plus more as needed)
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes or 1 can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp capers, rinsed
1/3 cup green olives, chopped
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Directions

In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
Mix until all ingredients are well combined, then shape the mixture into small patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Place the salmon cakes in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel.
Serve warm with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a simple yogurt dip.

Notes

For extra crispiness, coat the salmon cakes in additional panko before frying.
You can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes for a healthier option.
These pair well with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.

Classic Italian Relish