Eggplant

How to select

Choose eggplants that feel heavy and are free from blemishes and discoloration.

How to prepare

Rinse under running water.
Keep the skin on the eggplant.
Cut each end off the eggplant.
Cut into thin slices or thicker quarters.

How to store

Keep cucumbers in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for five to seven days.

Peak season

Summer, fall

Ways to use

Add eggplant pieces to a stir fry.
Bake eggplant slices with spaghetti sauce and cheese.
Use in place of meat for an eggplant "burger."
Try steaming, grilling, lightly frying, baking, or sauteing.

Fun facts

Eggplants are actually berries, not vegetables.
Eggplants belong to the "nightshade" family along with tomatoes.
Eggplants contain more nicotine than any other vegetable, but still not enough to compare to even 1 cigarette.
In the UK, eggplants are called aubergines.

Nutrition facts and info

Most nutrients in eggplant are found in the skin, so don't peel it off. Good source of fiber. Potassium, vitamins C & B6, and other nutrients make eggplant a heart-healthy food.

1 cup cubed eggplant = 20 calories, 5 g carbs, 2.5 g fiber, 12 mg magnesium, 20 g phosphorus, 188 mg potassium,