Name: Escalivada Catalana Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 medium Eggplant; 2 spanish onions; 1 red bell pepper; 3 large ripe tomatoes; ¼ cup spanish extra virgin olive oil; ½ tbsp sherry vinegar; salt; white pepper

Experience the vibrant flavors of Catalonia with this escalivada. This traditional roasted vegetable dish is perfect as a side or served on crusty bread. The smoky, sweet taste of roasted vegetables combined with olive oil and sherry vinegar will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.

Photos of Escalivada Catalana Recipe

For those unfamiliar with Spanish cuisine, sherry vinegar and Spanish extra virgin olive oil might be new ingredients. Sherry vinegar has a unique, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the dish wonderfully. Spanish extra virgin olive oil is typically more robust and flavorful than standard varieties, adding depth to the escalivada.

Ingredients for Escalivada Catalana

Eggplant: A medium-sized eggplant adds a creamy texture and absorbs the flavors of the dish well.

Spanish onions: Two Spanish onions provide a sweet and mild flavor that's crucial for the balance of the dish.

Red bell pepper: One red bell pepper adds a vibrant color and a sweet, slightly smoky flavor when roasted.

Tomatoes: Three large, ripe tomatoes contribute a juicy and slightly tangy element to the mix.

Spanish extra virgin olive oil: This olive oil is rich and robust, enhancing the overall flavor.

Sherry vinegar: A hint of sherry vinegar adds a subtle sweetness and acidity that complements the roasted vegetables.

Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables.

White pepper: Adds a mild heat and a nuanced spiciness without overpowering the dish.

One reader, Kiah Pinson says:

This escalivada catalana recipe is fantastic! The roasted vegetables are incredibly flavorful, and the sherry vinegar adds a delightful tang. It's simple to make and perfect as a side dish or on its own. Highly recommend!

Kiah Pinson

Key Techniques for Preparing Escalivada Catalana

How to coat vegetables with olive oil: Use a brush to apply a thin film of olive oil evenly over the surface of each vegetable.

How to roast vegetables: Place the coated vegetables in a baking tray or terracotta casserole and roast them in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for the specified times.

How to peel roasted vegetables: Once the vegetables are cool enough to handle, remove their skins by gently peeling them off.

How to seed a pepper: After roasting, cut off the top of the pepper and remove the seeds from inside.

How to remove the tops of tomatoes and eggplants: Use a knife to cut off the tops of the tomatoes and eggplants after roasting.

How to tear vegetables into strips or pieces: Use your hands to tear the roasted pepper into strips and the tomatoes and eggplants into 3 or 4 pieces.

How to slice onions into rings: Use a knife to cut the roasted onions into ring shapes.

How to mix and dress vegetables: Combine the prepared vegetables in a serving dish, then cover them with olive oil and sherry vinegar, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

How To Make Escalivada Catalana

Add some tang into roasted veggies in this Spanish escalivada catalana recipe that serves olive oil and sherry vinegar-coated vegetables for a smoky bite.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1mediumeggplant
2spanish onions
1red bell pepper
3largeripe tomatoes
¼cupspanish extra virgin olive oil
½tbspsherry vinegar
salt,to taste
white pepper,to taste

Instructions

Heat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Take all the vegetables and, using a brush, coat them with a thin film of olive oil. Place them in a baking tray or in a terracotta casserole, and roast the vegetables for 40 minutes.
Remove the eggplant, pepper, and tomatoes and set aside. Leave the onion in the oven for another 15 minutes until it too is soft. Remove and set aside.
By now the skins of the vegetables will be soft and loose. When cool enough to handle, peel the skins off the vegetables. Seed the pepper and remove the top. Remove the top of the tomato and the eggplant with a knife.
Using hands, tear the pepper into strips and the tomato into 3 or 4 pieces. Do the same to the eggplant. With a knife, slice the onion into rings.
Mix the vegetables together and place them in a serving dish. Cover them with olive oil and sherry vinegar.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 208.90kcal
Fat: 14.13g
Saturated Fat: 1.98g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.92g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.65g
Carbohydrates: 20.17g
Fiber: 7.18g
Sugar: 11.77g
Protein: 3.34g
Sodium: 837.00mg
Calcium: 41.08mg
Potassium: 741.39mg
Iron: 0.97mg
Vitamin A: 96.51µg
Vitamin C: 61.43mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Escalivada Catalana

When roasting the vegetables, make sure to turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent any one side from burning. This will help achieve a uniform texture and enhance the natural sweetness of the eggplant, onions, bell pepper, and tomatoes.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Escalivada Catalana Recipe

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the vegetables to save time.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Multitask: While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the olive oil and sherry vinegar mixture.

Cool quickly: Place the roasted vegetables in the fridge for a few minutes to cool faster before peeling.

Batch prep: Roast extra vegetables and store them for future meals to save time later.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to slice the onions quickly and evenly.

Substitute Ingredients For Escalivada Catalana Recipe

eggplant - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a good alternative for eggplant in this dish.
spanish onions - Substitute with yellow onions: Yellow onions have a similar flavor profile and can be used interchangeably with Spanish onions.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers have a similar sweetness and texture, making them a suitable replacement for red bell peppers.
large ripe tomatoes - Substitute with canned whole tomatoes: Canned whole tomatoes can provide a similar flavor and texture, especially when fresh tomatoes are not in season.
spanish extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with italian extra virgin olive oil: Italian extra virgin olive oil has a comparable flavor and quality, making it a good substitute for Spanish extra virgin olive oil.
sherry vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar has a similar acidity and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative for sherry vinegar.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar flavor and can be used in the same quantity as regular salt.
white pepper - Substitute with black pepper: Black pepper has a slightly stronger flavor but can be used as a substitute for white pepper in most recipes.

Presentation Ideas for Escalivada Catalana

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the escalivada in individual, elegantly shaped portions. Use a ring mold to neatly stack the eggplant, red bell pepper, tomato, and onion layers.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a drizzle of spanish extra virgin olive oil and a few drops of sherry vinegar. Add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Add texture: Include a crispy element such as thinly sliced, toasted baguette or croutons on the side to contrast with the softness of the roasted vegetables.
Highlight colors: Arrange the vegetables in a way that showcases their vibrant colors. Place the red bell pepper strips in a fan shape, the eggplant in a neat stack, and the tomato pieces around the edge of the plate.
Use high-quality serving ware: Serve the escalivada on a pristine white plate to make the colors of the vegetables stand out. Consider using a plate with a unique shape or design to add visual interest.
Incorporate height: Stack the vegetables to create height on the plate. This adds a dynamic visual element and makes the dish look more sophisticated.
Finish with a flourish: Just before serving, lightly sprinkle the dish with salt and freshly ground white pepper. Add a final drizzle of spanish extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Escalivada Catalana

Once the escalivada catalana has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors in the refrigerator.
When stored properly in the refrigerator, the escalivada catalana will keep well for up to 5 days. This allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors of the roasted vegetables for several meals throughout the week.
If you want to keep the escalivada catalana for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option:
- Divide the cooled mixture into portion-sized freezer bags or airtight containers, leaving some headspace for expansion during freezing.
- Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bags before sealing them tightly. This will help prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the roasted vegetables.
- Label the bags or containers with the date of preparation and the contents for easy identification later.
Frozen escalivada catalana can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors of summer vegetables even during the colder months when they are not in season.
To thaw the frozen escalivada catalana, simply transfer the desired portion from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. Once thawed, the roasted vegetables can be gently reheated in a pan or served at room temperature as a side dish or as a topping for bread or crackers.
If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold growth or an off-odor, discard the affected portion immediately to prevent contamination of other food items in your refrigerator or freezer.

How To Reheat Leftover Escalivada Catalana

The best way to reheat leftover escalivada catalana is to place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the roasted vegetables.
Alternatively, you can reheat the escalivada catalana in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to the pan and gently stir the vegetables until they're warmed through. This method is quicker than the oven, but be careful not to overcook the vegetables, as they may become mushy.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the escalivada catalana in the microwave. Place the vegetables in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Stir the vegetables between intervals to ensure even heating.
For a cold serving option, allow the leftover escalivada catalana to come to room temperature before serving. This method is perfect for summer days when you want a refreshing and flavorful side dish.
If you find that the leftover escalivada catalana has lost some of its moisture during storage, you can add a drizzle of fresh olive oil and a splash of sherry vinegar to revive the flavors before reheating or serving.

Is Making Escalivada Catalana at Home Cost-Effective?

The escalivada catalana recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients—eggplant, spanish onions, red bell pepper, and tomatoes—are generally affordable and widely available. The use of spanish extra virgin olive oil and sherry vinegar adds a touch of luxury but in small quantities. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$15 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Escalivada Catalana Healthy or Unhealthy?

The escalivada catalana recipe is a relatively healthy dish, as it primarily consists of roasted vegetables. The ingredients, such as eggplant, onions, bell pepper, and tomatoes, are all nutrient-dense and low in calories. These vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are beneficial for overall health and digestion. The use of olive oil, a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, further enhances the nutritional value of the dish.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe to lower the overall calorie and fat content
Use a variety of colored bell peppers to increase the diversity of nutrients
Add more herbs and spices, such as garlic, basil, or thyme, to enhance flavor without relying on excessive salt
Serve the escalivada alongside whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to increase the fiber content and make it a more balanced meal
Include a lean protein source, like grilled chicken or tofu, to make the dish more satiating and well-rounded

Editor's Opinion on Escalivada Catalana

This escalivada catalana recipe beautifully captures the essence of traditional Catalan cuisine. The roasting process intensifies the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while the sherry vinegar adds a delightful tang. The use of Spanish extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish with a rich, fruity aroma. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish. However, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth. Overall, it's a vibrant and flavorful dish that celebrates the beauty of Mediterranean vegetables.

Enhance Your Escalivada Catalana Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Aioli Crostini: Elevate your escalivada catalana with a delightful crunch by serving it alongside crispy crostini topped with a luscious garlic aioli. The creamy, garlicky spread perfectly complements the smoky, roasted vegetables in the dish, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Chickpea and Spinach Salad: Add a burst of freshness and protein with a vibrant chickpea and spinach salad. The earthy chickpeas and tender spinach leaves, tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, roasted vegetables of the escalivada.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Introduce a touch of the sea to your meal with succulent grilled shrimp skewers. The smoky, charred flavor of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the roasted eggplant, pepper, and tomato in the escalivada, adding a delightful seafood twist to the dish.

Herbed Quinoa Pilaf: Complement the roasted vegetables with a nutty, aromatic side of herbed quinoa pilaf. The fluffy quinoa, infused with fresh herbs like parsley and mint, offers a light and nutritious accompaniment that enhances the overall dining experience.

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in a comforting, creamy side of roasted garlic mashed potatoes. The rich, buttery potatoes, infused with the sweet, mellow flavor of roasted garlic, provide a luxurious counterpoint to the smoky, tangy escalivada, making for a truly satisfying meal.

Similar Recipes to Escalivada Catalana

Ratatouille: Dive into the vibrant world of French cuisine with this classic Provençal dish. A medley of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect as a side or a main course.

Pisto Manchego: Experience the flavors of Spain with this hearty vegetable stew. Combining zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, this dish is a celebration of fresh produce, typically served with a fried egg on top.

Caponata: Transport yourself to Sicily with this sweet and sour eggplant dish. Featuring celery, capers, olives, and a tangy vinegar and tomato sauce, Caponata is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side, or even a main course.

Antipasto Platter: Create a stunning Italian starter with an assortment of grilled vegetables, cured meats, cheeses, and olives. This platter is perfect for entertaining and offers a little something for everyone.

Baba Ghanoush: Indulge in this creamy Middle Eastern dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Serve with pita bread or vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer.

Recommended Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with Escalivada Catalana

Main Courses:

Grilled Mediterranean Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Mediterranean Chicken. Marinate chicken breasts in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. Grill to perfection and serve with a side of roasted vegetables and tzatziki sauce. This dish is a delightful combination of flavors that will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.

Seafood Paella: Indulge in the rich flavors of Seafood Paella. Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil. Add saffron-infused rice and a medley of seafood including shrimp, mussels, and calamari. Simmer in a savory broth until the rice is tender and the seafood is cooked through. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a truly authentic Spanish experience.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in the rich layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream. This classic Italian treat is elevated with a dusting of cocoa powder and a hint of coffee liqueur. Perfect for a sophisticated end to any meal, this dessert combines the bold flavors of coffee and chocolate with the creamy texture of mascarpone.

Pavlova: Delight in the crisp and chewy meringue base topped with a luscious layer of whipped cream and an array of fresh fruits. This elegant dessert is a showstopper, offering a balance of sweetness and tartness. The meringue provides a light and airy texture, while the fruits add a burst of freshness, making it a perfect choice for any special occasion.

Why trust this Escalivada Catalana Recipe:

This escalivada catalana recipe is a traditional Spanish dish that has been passed down through generations, ensuring its authenticity. The use of Spanish extra virgin olive oil and sherry vinegar adds a unique flavor profile that you won't find in other recipes. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their textures. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, rich history, and the delightful combination of eggplant, red bell pepper, tomatoes, and Spanish onions. Enjoy a taste of Catalonia in your own home!

Share your thoughts and experiences with making Escalivada Catalana in the World Cuisines forum. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations on this classic Spanish dish!

FAQ:

How do I know when the vegetables are done roasting?

The vegetables are done roasting when they are soft and the skins are starting to loosen. The eggplant, pepper, and tomatoes should be ready after about 40 minutes, while the onions might need an extra 15 minutes to become fully tender.

Can I use a different type of vinegar if I don't have sherry vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute sherry vinegar with red wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar if you prefer. It might slightly alter the flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Do I need to peel the vegetables before roasting them?

No, you don't need to peel the vegetables before roasting. The skins will become loose and easy to remove after roasting, making it much simpler to peel them.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Escalivada can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, letting it sit for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavors. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving.

What can I serve with escalivada?

Escalivada is quite versatile. You can serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, or enjoy it on its own with some crusty bread. It's also great as a topping for toast or as part of a tapas spread.