Summer eggplant
Published 8:46 am Monday, August 29, 2011
- There is nothing quite like the taste of eggplant picked fresh from the garden or straight from the farmers’ market. Whether it is simply grilled and prepared in a healthy version, or a not-so healthy version fried in crisp wedges or covered in melted cheese, its distinctive flavor lends a special touch to any meal.
from the garden or straight from the farmers’ market. Whether it is
simply grilled and prepared in a healthy version, or a not-so
healthy version fried in crisp wedges or covered in melted cheese,
its distinctive flavor lends a special touch to any
meal.
dishes and sandwiches, the versatile vegetable is frequently the
star attraction at any brunch, lunch or dinner.
shoppers of the Teche Area Farmer’s Market. They make regular
visits on Tuesdays and Saturdays to the market in Bouligny Plaza in
search of fresh vegetables straight from the garden. One item
topping their shopping list is fresh eggplant.
for a healthy meal and of course, just as many unhealthy ways,”
said Lisa Gonzalez.
our family’s favorite is my husband’s Eggplant Parmesan. It’s got
tons of fat and not very healthy, but it is so good.”
Parmesan, a family recipe that was passed down from his grandmother
who was of Italian descent.
gatherings I love to cook Italian food,” he said.
market to support area farmers.
and preserves and even homemade breads,” she said.
to the Teche Area Farmer’s Market for more than 15 years.
more than ever before. It used to be have plenty of eggplant and
would have to bring it back home, but now I never seem to have
enough of it,” said Blanchard.
favorites is smothered eggplant in butter with onions.
I’m not sure why you should soak it, but that is what my mother did
when she cooked eggplant,” said Bourque.
she usually keeps small containers filled with eggplant on hand to
mix for a dressing for a quick meal.
smothered eggplant is right at the top of her list.
Cajun dishes and compliments tomatoes, onions, garlic and is
particularly tasty with cheese.
market Saturday morning in search of fresh vegetables.
Daily Iberian/Cajun Sugar Co-op Creole/Cookbook Cookoff, is always
on the lookout for fresh ingredients to try out new recipes.
dressing casserole with small shrimp or ground beef,” she
said.
Saturdays and from 2 to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays.
