Traditional Greek Eggplant Dip – Melitzanosalata

This traditional Greek eggplant dip, known as melitzanosalata, is a staple of Greek home cooking and taverna-style meze tables. Made with roasted eggplants, garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon, it delivers deep smoky flavor with a refreshing, bright finish.

Unlike heavier eggplant spreads, this version is rustic, fresh, and naturally dairy-free, allowing the flavor of the eggplant to shine. It’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or spread, served with crusty bread, pita, or alongside grilled meats and seafood.

Traditional Greek Eggplant Dip – Melitzanosalata

Recipe by George Zolis

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: ΑppetizerCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

120

kcal

Total time

50

minutes

A classic Greek eggplant dip made with roasted eggplants, garlic, parsley, and lemon. Simple, fresh, and full of Mediterranean flavor.

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Ingredients

Metric US

• 4 4 Eggplants (1.1 kg / 2.5 lb)

• 4 4 Garlic Cloves, finely chopped

• 1/2 bunch 1/2 Fresh Parsley, finely chopped

• 1 1 Florina Red Pepper, finely chopped

• Juice of 1 Lemon

• Olive Oil, to taste

• Salt & Pepper, to tast

How to make Greek Melitzanosalata

• Pierce the eggplants well with a fork.
• Roast them whole in the oven or on a grill until completely softened.
• Cut them open and scoop out the flesh, avoiding excess seeds.
• Immediately add the lemon juice or vinegar to prevent discoloration.
• If desired, roast the Florina pepper first.
• Add all remaining ingredients and mix well.
• Taste and adjust salt and lemon as needed.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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What Makes Greek Eggplant Dip Authentic

Authentic Greek melitzanosalata focuses on simplicity. Roasting the eggplants whole creates a naturally smoky flavor, while garlic, lemon, and olive oil enhance rather than overpower the vegetable.

Oven or Grill – Both Work

You can roast the eggplants in the oven for convenience or grill them for extra smokiness. Piercing them first allows steam to escape and ensures even cooking.

Flavor Balance

Adding lemon juice immediately keeps the eggplant bright and fresh. The combination of garlic, parsley, and optional red pepper flakes creates a well-balanced dip that’s bold but not heavy.

How to Serve

This eggplant dip is commonly served as:

• A meze appetizer
• A spread for bread or pita
• A side dish with grilled meats or fish
• A light vegetarian option for gatherings