Eggplant

(CROSTINI DI PANE INTEGRALE CON MELANZANE E OLIVE) A simple hors d'oeuvre with rich flavor and very little fat. Note that the onion is sautéed in broth instead of oil or butter; this is a good way to cut fat and calories considerably.

Gussy up some couscous with chopped olives and red onion, and offer carrot and jicama sticks for crunch. Fill phyllo tart shells (from your store's frozen foods section) with vanilla pudding and sliced bananas for dessert.

At Erna’s Elderberry House the ravioli-like dumplings are prepared with homemade pasta, but wonton wrappers make an easy substitute.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(Spiced Roast Chicken and Vegetables)

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper and arugula share the stage with slices of tuna steak in the Mediterranean-inspired sandwich. Spoon the lentil salad alongside and offer chilled beer. Fresh pears and crisp biscotti round things out nicely.

Roasted eggplant spreads and salads come in many variations throughout Greece and are usually embellished with local flavor. In the North, yogurt is often added to the eggplants, for example, throughout the Cyclades, it is the ubiquitous caper and tomato that season this delicious dish.