To make eggplant salsa, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1 red onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 jalapeno pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the homemade pita chips, you'll need:
- 4 pita breads
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings like paprika, cumin, or oregano.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the pita breads into quarters and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle each piece with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, or any other desired flavors.
Step 3: Make the Eggplant Salsa
Slice the eggplants lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Cut the flesh into small cubes and place them in a colander to drain any excess moisture. Finely chop the red onion, garlic, and jalapeno pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped vegetables and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the eggplant cubes, lemon juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and simmer for another 10 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Pita Chips
Place the baking sheet with the pita chips in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.
Step 5: Serve the Eggplant Salsa with Pita Chips
Once the salsa is ready, transfer it to a blender or food processor and pulse until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the eggplant salsa with your crispy pita chips for a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer. Enjoy!