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CatalanStyle AshRoasted Vegetables (Escalivada) Recipe Recipe

Cover CatalanStyle AshRoasted Vegetables (Escalivada) Recipe Recipe (640x640)

Table of Contents

1. What is Escalivad?
2. How to Make Escalivad
3. What are the Benefits of Escalivad?
4. What are the Traditional Ingredients for Escalivad?
5. How to Serve Escalivad

What is Escalivad?

Escalivad is a traditional Catalan dish made from roasted vegetables. It is typically made with red bell peppers, eggplants, and onions, which are roasted over an open flame or in the oven until they are charred and tender. The name "escalivad" comes from the Catalan verb "escalivar," which means to roast or char over an open flame.

This dish has a smoky and robust flavor that comes from the charring of the vegetables. It is often served as a tapa or a side dish, but can also be used as a filling for sandwiches or as a topping for grilled meats. Escalivad is popular in the Catalonia region of Spain, where it is considered a staple dish.

How to Make Escalivad

Making escalivad is a relatively simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious Catalan dish:

Gather the Ingredients

To make escalivad, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 red bell peppers
• 2 eggplants
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing the bell peppers, eggplants, and onion. Remove the stems and seeds from the bell peppers, and cut them into quarters. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise, and slice the onion into thick rings. Peel the garlic cloves and leave them whole.

Roast the Vegetables

There are two methods for roasting the vegetables: over an open flame or in the oven.

If you have a gas stovetop, you can roast the vegetables directly over the flame. Place the bell peppers, eggplants, and onion on the burner grates and turn the flame to medium-high. Use tongs to turn the vegetables occasionally, until they are charred and tender. This process should take about 10-15 minutes.

If you don't have a gas stovetop, you can roast the vegetables in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bell peppers, eggplants, and onion on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until they are charred and tender.

Peel and Slice the Vegetables

Once the vegetables are roasted, remove them from the flame or oven and let them cool. The bell peppers should be placed in a plastic bag or covered with a damp cloth to steam for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to remove the skins.

Peel the skins off the bell peppers, eggplants, and onion. The skins should come off easily. Slice the vegetables into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Season and Serve

Place the sliced vegetables in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the oil and seasoning.

Escalivad can be served warm or at room temperature. It is often garnished with fresh parsley or chopped garlic. Serve it as a side dish or as a topping for grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own as a tapa.

What are the Benefits of Escalivad?

Escalivad not only tastes delicious, but it also offers several health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of including escalivad in your diet:

Rich in Antioxidants

The roasted red bell peppers and eggplants used in escalivad are rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamins A and C. Antioxidants help protect the body against oxidative stress, which can lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Including escalivad in your diet can help boost your antioxidant intake and support overall health.

High in Fiber

Eggplants, one of the main ingredients in escalivad, are a great source of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing constipation. It can also help lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar levels. Including escalivad in your diet can contribute to your daily fiber intake and support digestive health.

Low in Calories

Escalivad is a low-calorie dish, making it a great option for those who are looking to maintain or lose weight. The roasted vegetables are low in calories but still pack a flavorful punch. By replacing higher-calorie side dishes with escalivad, you can reduce your overall calorie intake without sacrificing taste.

Source of Vitamins and Minerals

In addition to antioxidants, escalivad is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. The roasted vegetables provide essential nutrients such as vitamins B6 and K, potassium, and manganese. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy bones, supporting brain function, and regulating blood pressure.

What are the Traditional Ingredients for Escalivad?

The traditional ingredients for escalivad are red bell peppers, eggplants, and onions. These vegetables are the foundation of the dish and provide its distinct flavor and texture. However, there are variations of escalivad that include additional ingredients to enhance the taste.

In some recipes, garlic cloves are added to the vegetables before roasting to infuse the dish with a subtle garlic flavor. Other recipes may include tomatoes or zucchini to add a touch of sweetness or extra texture. These variations allow for personal preferences and creativity in preparing escalivad.

When choosing the ingredients for escalivad, it is important to select fresh and high-quality vegetables. Look for bell peppers and eggplants that are firm and have smooth skin. The onions should be fresh and free from blemishes. Using fresh ingredients will ensure that the escalivad has the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve Escalivad

Escalivad can be served in a variety of ways, depending on personal preference and the occasion. Here are some suggestions on how to serve escalivad:

As a Tapa

Escalivad is commonly served as a tapa, which is a small snack or appetizer typically enjoyed with a drink. To serve escalivad as a tapa, arrange the roasted vegetables on a platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped garlic for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve with a crusty bread, such as baguette slices, for dipping.

As a Side Dish

Escalivad can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, such as chicken or steak. The smoky and robust flavors of the roasted vegetables complement the savory flavors of grilled meats. Place a generous portion of escalivad on the side of the plate, or use it as a topping for the meat.

As a Filling for Sandwiches

Another way to enjoy escalivad is to use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Spread a layer of escalivad on bread or tortilla, and add your choice of protein, such as grilled chicken or cheese. Top with fresh greens, such as lettuce or arugula, and roll or fold the sandwich or wrap. This makes for a delicious and nutritious lunch option.

As a Salad

For a lighter option, escalivad can be served as a salad. Combine the roasted vegetables with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and olives. Drizzle with a vinaigrette dressing, and toss to coat the ingredients evenly. This refreshing salad is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner.

As a Pizza Topping

If you're feeling adventurous, why not use escalivad as a topping for homemade pizza? Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the pizza dough, and arrange the roasted vegetables on top. Add your choice of cheese, such as