Crispy Feta Eggplant Bites

When it comes to appetizers that embody the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, few dishes can rival the delight of Crispy Feta Stuffed Eggplant Bites. This dish harmoniously combines the earthy and subtly sweet flavor of eggplant with the creamy, tangy richness of feta cheese, resulting in a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you are hosting a gathering, planning a dinner party, or simply in search of a healthy snack option, these crispy bites are sure to impress your guests and elevate your culinary repertoire.

Discover the deliciousness of Crispy Feta Stuffed Eggplant Bites, a delightful Mediterranean appetizer perfect for any gathering or as a healthy snack. These bites combine the earthy sweetness of eggplant with creamy feta cheese, creating a mouthwatering treat that's both satisfying and nutritious. Easy to prepare in advance and suitable for various dietary preferences, they are sure to impress your guests. Explore how to make these crispy delights and elevate your culinary skills!

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Ingredients

1 large eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil, for frying

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant:

- Place the eggplant cubes into a colander and sprinkle them generously with salt. Allow the eggplant to sit for approximately 30 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. After the resting period, rinse the cubes under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels to remove excess salt and moisture.

Make the Feta Mixture:

- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a flavorful stuffing.

Coat the Eggplant:

- Create a breading station by setting up three separate bowls: one filled with all-purpose flour, another with the beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs.

- Take one eggplant cube, lightly coat it in the flour, ensuring any excess is shaken off. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, before transferring it to the breadcrumbs. Press gently so that the breadcrumbs adhere well. Repeat this process for all eggplant cubes.

Fry the Eggplant Bites:

- In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat until hot. Carefully add the coated eggplant cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

- Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once fried, transfer them to paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Stuff with Feta:

- Allow the crispy eggplant bites to cool slightly. Using a small sharp knife, carefully make a small incision in the center of each cube to create a pocket. Gently use your fingers to stuff each bite with the prepared feta mixture.

Serve and Garnish:

- Arrange the stuffed crispy feta eggplant bites on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch and serve alongside lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4