Escalivada: Catalan Roasted Vegetables Recipe
Escalivada: Catalan Roasted Vegetables Recipe
Introduction
Escalivada is a traditional Catalan dish that showcases the delicious flavors of roasted vegetables. This simple yet flavorful recipe is a popular appetizer or side dish in Catalan cuisine. The dish consists of a medley of roasted vegetables, typically bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt. Let’s learn how to prepare this delightful dish at home!
Ingredients
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 large eggplant
- 1 large red onion
- 2 tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: olives for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the bell peppers, eggplant, onion, and tomatoes on a baking sheet.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until the skins are charred and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the vegetables from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Peel the charred skin off the bell peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes.
- Slice the vegetables into strips and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Crush the garlic cloves and sprinkle them over the roasted vegetables.
- Drizzle the vegetables with extra-virgin olive oil and season with salt to taste.
- For added flavor, you can garnish the escalivada with olives before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious escalivada as a tapa or side dish!
What is Escalivada?
Escalivada is a traditional Catalan dish made from roasted vegetables.
What vegetables are typically used in Escalivada?
The most common vegetables used in Escalivada include eggplant, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
How is Escalivada traditionally prepared?
To prepare Escalivada, the vegetables are roasted until their skins are charred, then peeled and sliced. They are then seasoned with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and sometimes garlic.
What is the significance of Escalivada in Catalan cuisine?
Escalivada is a beloved Catalan dish that showcases the region’s fresh produce and Mediterranean flavors. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer.
Can Escalivada be customized to suit personal preferences?
Absolutely! While the traditional recipe calls for specific vegetables, you can experiment with adding different vegetables or herbs to make the dish your own.
