When it comes to vibrant, wholesome vegan meals, aubergine and squash are two vegetables that truly shine. Their versatility allows them to be the stars of a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to fresh salads and flavorful roasts.
These vegetables not only bring rich textures and subtle sweetness to the table but also pack a nutritional punch that supports a balanced diet. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, these aubergine and squash vegan recipes offer a delicious and colorful way to enjoy your veggies.
Plus, they’re perfect for all seasons, easy to prepare, and wonderfully satisfying.
In this post, we’ll explore some delightful vegan recipes featuring aubergine and squash, share useful cooking tips, and guide you through each step to create meals that everyone will love. Ready to transform simple ingredients into culinary magic?
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Aubergine and squash are incredibly adaptable vegetables that soak up flavors beautifully, making them ideal for vegan cooking. These recipes are packed with fresh herbs, spices, and wholesome ingredients that deliver depth and comfort without any animal products.
You’ll appreciate how easy they are to prepare, requiring simple kitchen staples and no complicated techniques.
Beyond taste, these dishes are nutritious and satisfying, offering a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The natural creaminess of roasted aubergine combined with the tender sweetness of squash creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these recipes help you make nourishing meals that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 large aubergine (eggplant), diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or any preferred plant-based oil)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or fresh equivalent
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for garnish
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl for tossing ingredients
- Serving dish
- Optional: Baking tray if roasting aubergine and squash separately
Instructions
- Prepare the aubergine and squash: Rinse the aubergine and squash under cool water. Dice the aubergine into 1-inch cubes and slice the squash into half-moons. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Optional roasting step: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss aubergine and squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking tray and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. This step enhances the flavor but is optional if you prefer sautéing.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add spices and vegetables: Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and coriander to the onion-garlic mixture. Immediately add the roasted (or raw) aubergine, squash, and diced red bell pepper. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and absorb the spices.
- Add tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and excess liquid to reduce.
- Season and finish: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley, basil, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Serve: Transfer the dish to a serving platter. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top if using for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Enjoy warm!
Tips & Variations
“Roasting aubergine and squash separately before combining them in the pan intensifies their natural sweetness and prevents sogginess.”
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra variety.
- For a smoky twist, sprinkle a pinch of chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika.
- Serve this dish over quinoa, couscous, or your favorite grain for a complete meal.
- Try stirring in a splash of coconut milk or almond cream at the end for a creamy texture.
- For added protein, toss in cooked chickpeas or white beans before simmering.
- Use fresh herbs generously; they brighten this dish and complement the earthiness of the vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 165 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 22 g |
Fiber | 7 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Vitamin A | 15% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Potassium | 12% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This aubergine and squash dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and main courses. Consider serving it over fluffy basmati rice or a nutty quinoa salad for a wholesome meal.
It also complements crusty vegan breads, like the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe, which you can use to soak up the delicious juices.
For a fun twist, layer this mixture into a vegan lasagna or use it as a filling for stuffed peppers or wraps. If you want to keep it light, serve alongside a fresh green salad or the vibrant Half Runner Beans Recipe for a burst of color and flavor.
Aubergine and Squash Vegan Recipes Listicle
Roasted Aubergine & Squash with Garlic Tahini Sauce
This recipe features roasted aubergine and squash drizzled with a creamy garlic tahini sauce. The nutty sauce perfectly balances the sweetness of the veggies.
Serve it as a main dish or a side with warm pita bread.
Ingredients
- 1 large aubergine, cubed
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the tahini sauce:
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Water to thin
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss aubergine and squash with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes until golden and tender.
- Meanwhile, whisk together tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Add water gradually to reach desired pourable consistency.
- Drizzle the tahini sauce over the roasted vegetables and serve warm.
Aubergine and Squash Ratatouille
A classic French-inspired ratatouille that’s naturally vegan and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, it’s a comforting and colorful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 aubergine, diced
- 2 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until soft.
- Add aubergine, squash, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add crushed tomatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve with crusty vegan bread or over rice.
Spicy Aubergine & Squash Stir-Fry
A quick and spicy stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The aubergine and squash soak up a flavorful sauce made with soy, ginger, and chili for a satisfying and speedy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 aubergine, sliced into strips
- 2 yellow squash, sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add aubergine and squash, stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Mix soy sauce, maple syrup, and chili flakes in a small bowl, then pour over the vegetables.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving over steamed rice or noodles.
Conclusion
Aubergine and squash are a match made in vegan heaven, offering endless possibilities to create delicious, nutritious meals that don’t compromise on flavor. From the rich and smoky roasted dishes to bright and fresh Mediterranean-inspired recipes, these vegetables are incredibly versatile and easy to prepare.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner, a quick stir-fry, or a show-stopping side, aubergine and squash recipes bring warmth, color, and wholesome goodness to your table.
Don’t forget to explore more of our fantastic recipes like the Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe for an easy sauce to enhance your vegetable stir-fries, or treat yourself with the delightful Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a vegan-friendly sweet snack.
Happy cooking and enjoy the bounty of plant-based goodness!
📖 Recipe Card: Aubergine and Squash Vegan Stir-Fry
Description: A flavorful vegan stir-fry featuring tender aubergine and squash, seasoned with garlic and herbs. Perfect as a main or side dish, packed with nutrients and vibrant colors.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium aubergines, diced
- 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add diced aubergine and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add sliced squash, smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for another 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 20 g
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