Happy Fourth of July! Celebrate with this menu of multiple course options. Pick your favorites, sit back and watch some fireworks, and ENJOY!

On The Fourth of July Menu:

• Drinks. White Sangria Recipe, Strawberry Mojito, Skinny Blackberry Margarita, Peach Margaritas, Lavender Lemonade
• Appetizers. Guacamole, Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, Mexican Corn Dip, Jalapeno Poppers, Chicken Enchilada Dip
• Mains on the Grill. Chicken Kabobs, Grilled Shrimp, Grilled Chicken Breast with Strawberry Avocado Salad, Smoked Chicken Thighs, Teriyaki Burgers with Grilled Pineapple, Smoked Salmon
• Other Mains. Crockpot Ribs, Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, Honey Garlic Chicken Wings, Blue Cheese Burger, Crockpot Meatballs, Vegan Burger
• Big Salads. Fruit Salad, Black Bean Corn Salad, Italian Pasta Salad, Chicken Pasta Salad, Red White and Blue Quinoa Fruit Salad
• Sides. Healthy Coleslaw, Healthy Potato Salad, Boston Baked Beans, Grilled Corn
• Desserts. Easy Peach Cobbler, Blackberry Pie, Flag Cake, Red White and Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

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Fast-cooking, amendable to whatever vegetables are lurking in your fridge, and ultra family-friendly, this easy Beef Lo Mein is dinner tonight and lunch tomorrow… assuming you don’t polish it all off in one sitting anyway!.

Why You’ll Love This Takeout-Style Recipe

• It’s Quick and Simple. Keep a few staples like garlic and soy sauce on hand, along with instant flavor-makers like hoisin (the rough equivalent of Asian barbecue sauce) and sesame oil, and a nutritious dinner (like this Vegetable Lo Mein) is never more than 30 minutes away, fewer if you use frozen vegetables.
• Everyone Will Enjoy It. Healthy stir fry recipes make an appearance at least once a week around these parts. Partly because they’re nutritious and easy, but mostly because they’re incredibly delicious and crowd-pleasing.
• It’s Easy on Your Wallet. This recipe (and Tofu Stir Fry) is affordable to make. Beef lo mein is made of simple, nutritious ingredients. Thanks to noodles, the beef (and thus your dollar) goes a long way in this recipe.
• It’s Flexible. Lo mein is made of noodles, a protein (usually beef or chicken), vegetables, and a sweet and savory sauce. The recipe here is a starting point. Feel free to swap in other vegetables you have on hand, season to taste, and serve with any of your favorite sides.

What’s the Difference Between Beef Chow Mein and Beef Lo Mein?

These are two popular Chinese takeout entrees that are similar in flavor and ingredients, but the preparation of the noodles differs.

• Chow mein means “fried noodles.” The noodles are cooked, then pan fried before adding the other ingredients. (This Chicken Chow Mein is a great recipe.)
• Lo mein means “tossed noodles.” You cook the noodles, then stir them into the stir fried meat and vegetables.

Since the noodles in this recipe are tossed in at the end, that makes it beef lo mein. (Wow your friends with this one!)

Whether chow mein or lo mein is better is entirely up to you!

How to Make Beef Lo Mein

The Ingredients

• Beef. Today’s lo mein protein of choice. Beef offers protein, iron, and several essential vitamins such as B6 and B12. It’s regarded to be healthy in moderation.

• Noodles. Saucy, slippery noodles are a pure delight! For a healthy spin, I prefer to use whole grain noodles, which are higher in fiber and nutrients (I use this trick in my Stir Fry Noodles too).
• Garlic + Ginger + Soy Sauce. The stir fry Big Three.
• Hoisin. This sweet/savory/umami sauce is nearly all you need to make fabulously flavored stir fries. I always have a jar of it on hand.

• Vegetables. My favorite combination of vegetables for stir fries is broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots for the array of colors and nutrients. Snow peas are also delicious. That said, you can make stir fry with just about any veggie you have around.
• Water Chestnuts. While optional, I have been smitten with their crunch since I was in high school ordering Mongolian beef lo mein with my hard-earned dollars at lunch.
• Toasted Sesame Oil. While optional, this adds a professional, finished taste to the lo mein. It’s intensely nutty, savory, and makes the lo mein all the harder to stop eating.

The Directions

1. Prep the Beef. Slice it and coat it in the baking soda mixture.
2. Cook the Noodles. Cook just until they’re al dente.

3. Stir the Sauce Together. A liquid measuring cup works well for this.

4. Cook the Beef With Sauce. Remove it while it’s still a little pink inside.

5. Cook the Vegetables. We want them to be crisp-tender.
6. Combine. Add all the ingredients back to the pan, stirring to heat and coat in the sauce. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

• To Store. Refrigerate leftover beef lo mein in an airtight container for 4 days.
• To Reheat. Rewarm leftovers in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or gently in the microwave. Splash a little water or broth onto the noodles to keep them from drying out.
• To Freeze. You can freeze beef lo mein. Freeze in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

What to Serve With Beef Lo Mein

• Veggies. Pair beef lo mein with Roasted Eggplant, Sauteed Mushrooms, or Air Fryer Green Beans for extra veggies.
• Salad. Asian Cucumber Salad or Asian Cabbage Salad would both be tasty.
• Toppings. Spruce up your beef lo mein with your favorite toppings! Green onion, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, bean sprouts, or wonton strips would all be tasty.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Cast Iron Skillet. If you prefer a large skillet over a wok, this 12-inch Staub with enamel bottom is second to none!
• Knife Set. This 10-piece Zwilling set stays sharper longer than expected.
• Pasta Strainer. A 5-quart colander with large handles is perfect for noodles for the whole family.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Slice the Beef Against the Grain. This helps tenderize its fibers.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef. Tender, flavorful beef is the goal here, so make sure you don’t overdo it. When overcooked, beef can become tough and dry.
• Use the Veggies You Have. Raid the fridge or buy your favorites! Feel free to swap in the vegetables your family enjoys most. Stir fries are also an ideal place to use vegetables that are past their prime.
• Don’t Skip the Water Chestnuts. While they aren’t a critical component in this easy beef lo mein recipe per se, they add a delectable crunch that I think makes it extra tasty. Even if you don’t typically purchase them, I urge you to give them a try.

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Beef Lo Mein

Easy, healthy beef lo mein featuring tender beef sautéed with broccoli, noodles, and vegetables in a yummy sweet and savory lo mein sauce.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 people

Calories 480kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 1 pound sirloin top round steak, or flank steak
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 6 tablespoons water divided
• 6 ounces long noodles such as whole grain spaghetti or whole grain fettuccine, soba noodles, or udon noodles
• 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce plus additional to taste
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 4 cloves garlic minced or grated (about 1 heaping tablespoon)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes plus additional to taste
• 1 tablespoon canola oil or peanut or grapeseed oil
• 2 medium carrots peeled and cut into thin coins
• 1 head broccoli cut into small florets (about 3 cups), or 3 cups thinly sliced cabbage
• 1 red bell pepper cored and thinly sliced
• 1 (8-ounce) can sliced water chestnuts drained
• 4 green onions thinly sliced divided
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil optional

Instructions

• For easier slicing, place the beef in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up. Cut the beef across the grain into very thin (1/4-inch or smaller) slices. Cut any long slices in half crosswise (each strip should be around 3 inches or so long).
• Place the beef in a medium bowl. In a small bowl, stir together the baking soda and 2 tablespoons of the water. Pour over the beef and toss to coat. Let sit 5 minutes (this helps to tenderize it).
• Meanwhile, in a large pot of salted water, cook the noodles just until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water. Set aside.
• In a small bowl or larger liquid measuring cup, stir together the soy sauce, hoisin, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Keep handy near the stove.
  
• In a wok or large, nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium high. Add the beef and cook until crisp on the outside but still pink on the inside, about 3 minutes. The beef will give off liquid, which is fine. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the sauce and let cook 30 seconds. With a large spoon, scoop the beef onto a plate (any cooking juices left behind will cook away).
  
• Add the carrots, broccoli, and bell pepper. Cook until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) of water and let the vegetables steam until the broccoli turns bright green and most of the liquid has cooked away, about 2 minutes more.
  
• Stir in the water chestnuts, half of the green onions, and 2 tablespoons of the soy sauce mixture and let cook 30 additional seconds.
• Reduce the heat to medium. Add the noodles and beef and pour the remaining soy sauce mixture over the top. With tongs, stir and toss until the noodles are heated through.
• Drizzle the sesame oil over the top (if using) and sprinkle on the remaining green onion. Toss to combine. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

• TO STORE: Refrigerate leftover beef lo mein in an airtight container for 4 days.
• TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or gently in the microwave. Splash a little water or broth onto the nooldes to keep them from drying out.
• TO FREEZE: Freeze in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4) | Calories: 480kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Potassium: 1029mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 6647IU | Vitamin C: 105mg | Calcium: 119mg | Iron: 5mg

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Stir fries and other Asian specialties are delicious and full of nutritional value. Here are some of my favorites:

Stir Fries

Egg Fried Rice

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Healthy Orange Chicken

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Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

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Burrata isn’t just a cheese—it’s an experience. This Caprese-inspired Burrata Salad balances its sublime creaminess with peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, a sunny lemon dressing, and syrupy balsamic glaze—just add some crusty bread on the side!

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Burrata Salad Recipe

• No-Cook Summer Dinner. Like my Italian Chopped Salad and Antipasto Salad, this is a salad you can make into a meal—especially if you pair it with Grilled Flank Steak, Smoked Chicken Breast, or your favorite protein. Best of all, you don’t need to turn on the oven to make it! (Who wants to turn on the oven when it’s 90 degrees out?! Absolutely no one!)
• One Word: Burrata. It’s literally cheese inside of cheese—a shell of mozzarella with cream and cheese curds inside. Needless to say, it’s a lot on its own, but pairing it with light, fresh ingredients balances that buttery richness. (Can’t get enough burrata? Be sure to try my Burrata Pizza too, or swap burrata for mozzarella in my Caprese Pasta Salad!)
• A Versatile Recipe. Like all salads, this burrata salad is fabulously flexible. I share some ideas below, but the bottom line is, there’s a lot of room to make this recipe your own.
• The Quintessential Summer Salad. Seriously, it doesn’t get much better than this. The creamy burrata is balanced by fresh tomatoes, greens, basil, and a citrusy dressing—what more could you ask for? It also transitions from backyard barbecue to potluck picnic or a weeknight dinner on the patio with ease.
• Made in Minutes. This burrata salad comes together quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy the summer fun.

How to Make Burrata Salad

The Ingredients

For the Burrata Salad

• Baby Arugula. The peppery bite of arugula is ideal for pairing with decadent burrata, but you can go with milder spinach if you prefer.
• Cherry Tomatoes. Use all red tomatoes for a traditional look, or multicolored for some pizzazz. You choose!

• Fresh Burrata Cheese. These days, most grocery stores sell burrata. You can usually find it in plastic tubs alongside fresh mozzarella. Burrata can be made with buffalo milk or cow’s milk; use whichever you prefer for this recipe.

• Fresh Basil Leaves. Because basil, tomatoes, and creamy burrata cheese are a trifecta of deliciousness! Save the rest for Basil Pesto.
• Balsamic Glaze. Buy it or make your own. Some aged balsamic vinegars are thick and syrupy without having to cook them down into a glaze first.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper. This is also a great opportunity to grab that jar of flaky fleur de sel from your pantry.

For the Dressing

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. Use a fancy one of you have it!
• Lemon Juice. Lemon brightens up the flavor of this salad, and the acid also brings balance to the rich burrata.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper. Yep, a little more in the dressing.

The Directions

1. Make the Base. Combine the arugula with half of the tomatoes, half of the burrata, and half of the basil in a large bowl.

2. Make the Dressing. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup.

3. Dress the Salad. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

4. Top It Off. Add the remaining tomatoes, burrata, and basil to the salad, then drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Serve with additional dressing on the side and ENJOY!

Recipe Variations

• Burrata Salad With Fruit. Swap the tomatoes for sliced peaches, nectarines, plums, or a combination of all three stone fruits. Figs would make a luscious addition, as would blueberries. Keep the basil or try mint leaves instead.
• Burrata Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette. Instead of the lemon vinaigrette in this recipe, use the dressing from my Balsamic Chicken Salad and skip the balsamic glaze.
• Burrata Panzanella. Add cubes of toasted crusty bread (sourdough or a baguette will work well!) to your salad.
• Burrata Prosciutto Salad. Tear slices of prosciutto over the top. This variation. is extra delicious with peaches.
• Extra-Summery Burrata Salad. Diced cucumbers and fresh corn (or Grilled Corn!) amp up the summery flavors in this burrata salad even more.

Storage Tips

• To Store. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. (I don’t recommend purposely making this salad in advance to serve later.)
• To Freeze. This is not a recipe that freezes well. Enjoy it fresh!

What to Serve with Burrata Salad

• Cocktails. Burrata salad is best enjoyed al fresco with a glass of Italian Margarita or White Sangria.
• Bread. Visit your favorite bakery and pick up some crusty bread for serving with your burrata salad, or make my No Knead Foccacia if you’re feeling ambitious. Crostini is delicious here too!
• Whole Grains. Make your salad a meal by tossing it with cooked farro or quinoa.
• Chicken. Round out your dinner with a simple chicken recipe like my Grilled Chicken Breast or Air Fryer Chicken Thighs.
• Seafood. Grilled Shrimp and Broiled Salmon are also easy options for pairing with burrata salad.
• Italian Dishes. Serve burrata salad as an appetizer or side with Pesto Pasta or Zucchini Lasagna.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Mixing Bowls. These bowls are my favorite because they do double-duty as mixing bowls and serving bowls.
• Non-Slip Cutting Board. A cutting board that actually stays in place!
• Sharp Knife. Dull knives just won’t cut it (pun intended) with tomatoes.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use the Best Ingredients. When a recipe is simple, that’s when ingredients matter most. Pick up a pint of cherry tomatoes from the farmers’ market, use your best bottle of olive oil, and don’t skimp on the balsamic vinegar. You’ll be able to taste the difference here.
• Make Sure Your Burrata Is Fresh. Burrata is a fresh cheese that is best used within 48 hours of purchasing. Keep this in mind when planning your grocery shopping.
• Serve It Right Away. Yes, it will keep in the fridge for a bit, but burrata salad is so much better when served right after assembling. The greens are crisper, the tomatoes haven’t released all their juices into the salad, and everything is just fresher and more delicious.
• Let the Burrata Come to Room Temperature. Related to the previous point, this is a salad that tastes best at room temperature—you can tear the burrata into pieces while chilled (in fact, it’s easier this way), but it should be room temp when you serve it because this allows you to really appreciate its uniquely creamy texture.

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Burrata Salad

This Caprese-inspired burrata salad pairs rich, creamy burrata cheese with peppery arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic glaze. It's divine!

Course Salad

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 280kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

For the Burrata Salad:

• 5 ounces baby arugula about 5 cups
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved (about 2 cups), divided
• 8 ounces burrata cheese torn into rough pieces, divided
• 1/4 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves chopped or torn into pieces, divided
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze store bought or see notes for homemade
• Kosher salt and black pepper

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

• Place the arugula in a large bowl. Add half of the tomatoes, half of the burrata, and half of the basil.
  
• Make the dressing: In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup with a spout, stir together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spoon lightly over the top of the salad, then toss to combine—you want everything to have a very light coating; about 3 tablespoons should do it.
  
• Scatter the remaining tomatoes, burrata, and basil over the top. Drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Serve immediately, with additional salt and pepper and dressing taste.
  

Notes

• To make balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey. Gently simmer over medium-low heat until thickened and reduced by a little more than half, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. You’ll have a little extra (YUM!)
• TO STORE: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. I don’t recommend purposely making this salad in advance to serve later.
• TO FREEZE: This is not a recipe that freezes well. Enjoy it fresh!

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 4) | Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Potassium: 403mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1897IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 374mg | Iron: 1mg

Related Recipes

Salads are the ideal summer dinner—light, fresh, and no cooking required! Here are some more of my favorites:

Salads

Red White and Blue Quinoa Fruit Salad

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Mexican

Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad

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Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

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By utilizing a weekly meal plan, you can ensure you and your family are maintaining healthy eating habits, explore new recipes, and ultimately — save time (and money!) in the grocery store and kitchen each week.

On The Menu This Week:

• Monday. Burrito Bowl
• Tuesday. Tofu Curry
• Wednesday. One Pan Broccoli Quinoa Skillet
• Thursday. Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast with Sautéed Broccoli
• Friday. Grilled Shrimp with Grilled Asparagus
• Bonus. Black Bean Brownies

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Grocery Costs

• Burrito Bowl: $10.27
• Tofu Curry: $8.83
• One Pan Broccoli Quinoa Skillet: $5.59
• Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast with Sautéed Broccoli: $7.12
• Grilled Shrimp with Grilled Asparagus: $17.07

Please note the grocery costs are only an estimate based on the recipe’s serving size and on ingredient prices of a local grocery store. The generated shopping list above includes items like spices and other pantry staples you most likely have on hand, so we have left them out of the grocery estimate. To keep costs down and streamline groceries, refer to any Meal Plan Suggestions listed in blue above.

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Transform chicken thighs from an everyday dinner staple to an absolute showstopper with this Smoked Chicken Thighs recipe. Smoky, flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone tender, they taste like a menu item from your favorite hole-in-the-wall BBQ joint!

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Chicken Recipe

• The Dry Spice Rub Brings It. And by it, I mean: allllll the flavor. It’s sweet, smoky, savory, a little bit spicy, and the addition of cloves or cardamom gives it that little je ne sais quoi that will have everyone asking for your recipe.
• Juicy on Juicy. Bone-in, skin-on thighs don’t exactly have a reputation for being dry, but when they’re smoked, they’re supremely tender and juicy beyond your wildest dreams. 
• Smoking Brings Out the Best In Everything. From Smoked Chicken Breast to Smoked Salmon, there’s just something magical about the smoking process. The aroma, the flavor—it’s just objectively true that smoked foods are irresistible.
• It’s Easy. Okay, it’s not as easy as popping a baking dish of chicken into the oven for Baked Chicken Thighs, but as far as smoking recipes go, these smoked chicken thighs are a great place to start. There’s nothing too complicated or fussy here.

How to Smoke Chicken Thighs

The Ingredients

For the Chicken Thighs, Smoking, and Basting

• Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs. I used 6, but this is a recipe that’s easy to scale up for a crowd. Don’t use boneless skinless chicken thighs—you want bone-in and skin-on for the best flavor.
• Charcoal, Pellets, or Whatever Fuels Your Smoker. We use hardwood lump charcoal.
• Wood Chips or Chunks. I recommend pecan, oak, or apple wood. Cherry wood works too.
• Barbecue Sauce. I like using my Homemade Barbecue Sauce, but your favorite barbecue sauce will work just fine.
• Butter. Combined with the barbecue sauce for basting. Mmmmm.

For the Smoked Chicken Rub

• Brown Sugar. Dark brown sugar has a more assertive molasses flavor, while light brown sugar is more mild. Use either here.
• Kosher Salt. Always my favorite salt for cooking.
• Smoked Paprika. This adds another layer of smoky flavor to our smoked chicken thighs.
• Garlic and Onion Powder. These allow us to get all that savory flavor without having to use actual onions and garlic.
• Chili Powder and Cumin. Both bring some earthiness to our rub.
• Ground Black Pepper. Use freshly cracked peppercorns for the best flavor.
• Ground Cloves or Cardamom. The little somethin’-somethin’ that takes this dry rub to the next level.
• Cayenne Pepper. Adjust the amount as you please.

The Directions

1. Prepare. Set the chicken thighs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pat them dry.

2. Make the Dry Rub. Whisk together all of the rub ingredients.

3. Season. Coat the chicken in the dry rub and let it sit for 30 minutes.
4. Heat the Smoker. Follow the instructions for your smoker to heat it to 225 degrees F.

5. Smoke the Chicken. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker and smoke until they reach 165 degrees F, or 45 to 75 minutes.

6. Make the BBQ Baste. Warm the barbecue sauce and butter, stirring until the butter melts.

7. Baste. Brush the sauce mixture over the chicken when the internal temperature of the chicken thighs reaches the 150 degree F mark. Keep smoking until the chicken is done.

8. Rest. Remove the chicken from the smoker and tent with aluminum foil for 10 minutes before cutting and serving. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

• To Store. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat. Loosely cover the chicken thighs with foil and reheat in a 350 degree F oven until warmed through, or warm carefully in the microwave. 
• To Freeze. Store smoked chicken thighs for up to 2 months in the freezer. Wrap them well and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw the smoked chicken thighs overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.

What to Serve with Smoked Chicken Thighs

• Vegetables. Veggies and protein make a complete meal! Try these smoked chicken thighs with Roasted Sweet Potatoes or Air Fryer Zucchini.
• Grains. Healthy whole grain dishes like Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad or Broccoli Rice Casserole are the perfect accompaniment to smoked chicken.
• BBQ Sides. Classic BBQ side dishes like Boston Baked Beans and Instant Pot Mac and Cheese are made for serving with this recipe!
• Potatoes. Try Crock Pot Baked Potatoes with cheese and a sprinkle of minced chives or Oven Roasted Potatoes.
• Grilled Foods. As long as you’re cooking outside anyway, you might as well make some Grilled Corn on the Cob or Grilled Zucchini.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Smoker. A charcoal smoker, pellet smoker (pellet grill), or kamado smoker all work here, so choose whichever one appeals to you.
• Brush. For basting the chicken thighs.
• Instant-Read Thermometer. You’ll never suffer through dry, rubbery chicken again once you invest in a good thermometer.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use the Best Wood and Charcoal. For the charcoal, I like hardwood lump charcoal, like FOGO. Use a mild wood or fruit wood, like pecan, oak, or apple for smoked chicken thighs.
• Make Sure the Rub Sticks. Dry the chicken thighs thoroughly before applying the rub. This will help it adhere better so the flavor stays on the chicken, not the smoker!
• Disregard the Time. Instead, rely on your instant-read thermometer. With smoking, it’s virtually impossible to pinpoint the precise time when something will be ready to eat. Only a thermometer can tell you when your food is done. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the chicken thigh and continue to smoke until it reaches 165 degrees F. Don’t watch the clock!
• Don’t Rush It. Although smoking and grilling have a lot in common, smoking is not a quick cooking process like grilling is. You just can’t rush it if you want the best results. (If you’re in a time crunch, make Grilled Chicken Thighs instead!)
• Don’t Cook Lower Than 225 Degrees F. A lower temperature will make the skin rubbery—not the crispy chicken skin you want! (A slightly higher temperature is okay, though.)

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Smoked Chicken Thighs

How to make the best Smoked Chicken Thighs at home! They're juicy, flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone tender. An easy recipe for beginners!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour

Total Time 2 hours hours

Servings 4 -6 servings

Calories 656kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

For the Chicken Thighs, Smoking, and Basting

• 2 1/2 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs about 6
• Charcoal pellets, or whatever fuels your smoker, we use hardwood lump charcoal
• Wood chips or chunks such as pecan, apple, or oak
• 1/3 cup Homemade Barbecue Sauce or your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Rub

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves or cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

• Remove the chicken thighs from the refrigerator, place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and pat dry.
  
• In a small bowl, combine the rub ingredients: brown sugar, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder chili powder, cumin, black pepper, cloves, and cayenne.
  
• Rub all over the chicken, working some of the rub underneath the skin. Let sit for 30 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the smoker.
  
• Heat your smoker to 225°F. Prior to lighting, add the wood, mixing it with the charcoal. It’s OK if your smoker gets a bit hotter than 225°F; just note that the chicken will cook more quickly. Do not cook it any lower than 225°F or the skin will be rubbery.
• Add the chicken thighs skin-side up and smoke until they reach 165°F on an instant-read thermometer inserted at the thickest part, 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes depending upon the size of your thighs, your smoker set up, and how much your smoker temperature is fluctuating. Smoke to temperature, not to time on the clock.
  
• While the chicken is smoking, heat together the barbecue sauce and butter, stirring until the butter melts completely. Once the chicken reaches around 150°F (about 40 minutes in), baste the chicken all over with the sauce, then continue smoking until the chicken reaches 165°F.
  
• Remove the chicken from the smoker. Tent with foil and let rest 10 minutes. If you’d like to crisp the skin, place the chicken under the oven broiler for a few minutes just before serving.
  

Notes

• TO STORE: Store leftover smoked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• TO REHEAT: Loosely cover the chicken thighs with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or warm carefully in the microwave. 
• TO FREEZE: Store smoked chicken thighs for up to 2 months in the freezer. Wrap them well and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw the smoked chicken thighs overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4) | Calories: 656kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 46g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 251mg | Potassium: 642mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 1488IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 3mg

Related Recipes

Chicken is one of my mealtime staples. Here are some more healthy chicken dinner ideas to try:

Main Dishes

Smoked Chicken Thighs

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Main Dishes

Burrito Bowl

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Stir Fries

Chicken Stir Fry

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Tangles of zucchini noodles wrapped around burst cherry tomatoes in a garlic Parmesan sauce that forms itself right in the pan as the zucchini cooks, this bright Zucchini Pasta is the recipe that convinced me that zucchini noodles can, in fact, be as legitimately satisfying as regular pasta noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Pasta Recipe

• Zucchini Noodles You’ll Actually Want to Eat. Most of the time if you are cooking with zucchini noodles, it’s because you are trying to save calories or keep things low carb. But, like my Healthy Shrimp Scampi, this creamy zucchini pasta is an absolute delight with its bright, summery flavors.
• Use Up All That Summer Zucchini. Zucchini Muffins and Blueberry Zucchini Bread are great, but if you’re looking for healthy ways to make zucchini for dinner, this zucchini pasta is right up there with my Stuffed Zucchini and Zucchini Pizza Boats.
• It’s a Versatile Recipe. You can keep the recipe vegetarian as written, or add your protein of choice. See “What to Serve with Zucchini Pasta” below for ideas.
• Zucchini Pasta Is Ridiculously Easy. 15 minutes of prep plus 10 minutes of cooking time equal an outstanding weeknight dinner option.

More About Zucchini Pasta

Zucchini pasta is a bit of a misnomer, because this recipe doesn’t actually include traditional pasta noodles—and no, you won’t find it alongside linguine and bucatini when you’re eating dinner at a ristorante in Italy.

Instead, it uses spiralized zucchini, meaning zucchini that has been cut into long, thin spaghetti-shaped “noodles” using a spiralizer machine.

Spiralizers are not expensive—the one I recommend will set you back around $20, but I know it can feel like a lot to add another appliance to your kitchen. I have a few suggestions for how to make zucchini noodles without a spiralizer below.

While zucchini noodles do not taste exactly like pasta noodles, if you cook them properly (meaning until they are al dente, not mushy), they are surprisingly satisfying.

Zucchini noodles absorb flavors well, you can twirl them around your fork like traditional noodles, and it does feel good to know you are enjoying a hefty serving of veg.

Zucchini noodles can also provide a pasta-like option for those who can’t have traditional pasta for dietary reasons. If you are gluten-free, wanting to reduce carbohydrates, or are following a diet like Whole30, keto, or Paleo, zoodles are a great option (check out these Whole30 Meatballs, by the way).

How to Make Zucchini Pasta

The Ingredients

• Zucchini. Zucchini noodles are a delicious, healthy pasta alternative that make this dish worthy of eating on repeat. They’re gluten-free, low carb, and keto/Paleo/Whole30 friendly.

• Lemon Juice + Cornstarch. The sneaky thickener for our pasta sauce. The lemon juice adds brightness, while the cornstarch helps the sauce thicken without resorting to heavy cream.
• Butter. While you could use extra-virgin olive oil, I love the flavor that butter adds to this zucchini pasta.
• Shallot +  Garlic. An iconic duo that creates a scrumptious flavor base for our pasta sauce.
• Cherry Tomatoes. Juicy, red pops of sweet goodness that flavor the sauce and every bite you take.
• Red Pepper Flakes. For the ideal amount of heat.
• Parmesan. Not only does the Parmesan provide salty, cheesy flavor, but it also plays a role in thickening our pasta sauce.
• Basil. A shower of fresh basil is the perfect finishing touch for this dish.

The Directions

1. Prepare. Spiralize the zucchini.

2. Start the Sauce. Prepare the lemon and cornstarch slurry.

3. Cook the Veggies. Sauté the shallots in butter. Add the garlic. Stir in the tomatoes.
4. Make It Creamy. Pour in the slurry and red pepper flakes.

5. Coat the Noodles. Add the noodles, stirring to coat them in the sauce.

6. Bring It All Together. Add the cheese. Cook until the noodles are al dente. Keep on tossing the whole time.

7. Finish and Serve. Sprinkle in salt and pepper, and add the basil. Top with Parmesan, and ENJOY!

Storage Tips

• To Make Ahead. Spiralize the zucchini noodles up to 2 days in advance, and store them in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator.
• To Store. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat. Gently reheat leftovers in a large skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the zoodles can have a mushy texture once thawed.

What to Serve with Zucchini Pasta

• Meatballs. A side of Baked Turkey Meatballs would be a delicious and hearty addition.
• Shrimp. Zucchini pasta with shrimp is a winning combination. Garlic Butter Shrimp or Grilled Shrimp Seasoning would be tasty.
• Chicken. For a crowd-pleasing addition, serve this dish with Grilled Chicken Tenders or Air Fryer Chicken Thighs.
• Bread. For a gluten-free option, try this Almond Flour Bread. Or, you can pick up a loaf of your favorite bread from a local bakery. No Knead Focaccia is good too!

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Spiralizer. The easiest way to create perfect zucchini noodles.
• Tongs. The best way to toss the noodles.
• Large Skillet. A kitchen tool you’ll use constantly, and it’s perfect for many of these one pan meals.
• Citrus Juicer. A helpful gadget that’s worthy of a spot in your kitchen.

Keeping Zucchini Noodles from Becoming Soggy

Zucchini has a naturally high water content, meaning that if you aren’t careful, you’ll end up with soggy noodles and a watery sauce.

This zucchini pasta recipe uses the water content of zucchini to its advantage. As the zucchini releases water, we toss the zoodles continuously in Parmesan and a bit of cornstarch.

The cornstarch and Parm bind with the noodles, turning the zucchini liquid into a light, creamy zucchini pasta sauce. I stole the approach from this Pasta al Limone and was delighted to find that it works well here also.

Here are a few tips more tips to make your zucchini noodles not soggy:

• Wait to Add Salt. Salt naturally draws moisture out of ingredients, so it could make the noodles soggy if added too early. Wait to add the salt until just before serving.
• Don’t Overcook Them! Once the noodles are al dente, they’re done. Overcooked zucchini noodles can quickly become a mushy, soggy mess.
• Pat Them Dry. After you’ve spiralized your zucchini, lay the noodles on a towel, and gently press down to remove any excess moisture.

How to Make Zucchini Noodles without a Spiralizer

By far, the easiest and fastest way to make zucchini spaghetti is with a spiralizer. It’s inexpensive and once you own it, you’ll likely find yourself making veggie noodles more frequently.

I like countertop models like this one. You can find many similar models on Amazon and at other retailers too. You can use them for other vegetables in addition to the zucchini.

If you don’t have or wish to purchase a spiralizer, you certainly have options!

• You can use a handheld vegetable peeler like this one to create long, straight zucchini noodles.
• Slice your zucchini lengthwise on a mandoline for easy zoodles (I use this technique for my Zucchini Ravioli).
• If necessary, you can even cut zucchini noodles by hand using a knife. Cut long, thin noodles down the length of the zucchini (though by the time you are done, you may wish you’d bought a spiralizer).

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Zucchini Pasta

This creamy zucchini pasta pairs zucchini "noodles" with lemon, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and an easy Parmesan pan sauce. Bright and healthy!

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 180kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 2 pounds zucchini about 4 medium
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 1 medium lemon
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small shallot finely chopped
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus additional for serving
• 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves roughly chopped
• Kosher salt
• Ground black pepper

Instructions

• Spiralize the zucchini (see blog post above for tips). Set aside.
  
• In a small bowl or large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the lemon juice and cornstarch. Set near your stove.
  
• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and saute until soft, about 3 minutes.
• Add the garlic and cook just until very fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Add the cherry tomatoes and stir to coat. Let cook 2 minutes, just until the tomatoes begin to soften.
  
• Add the lemon juice mixture and red pepper flakes. Let simmer 1 minute.
• Add the zucchini noodles. Toss them with the mixture, using a pair of tongs to coat them as evenly as possible with the sauce and to break apart the noodles. At first the mixture will seem dry.
  
• Add the Parmesan cheese. Keep tossing and cooking. As the zucchini cooks and gives up its liquid, it will form a sauce that coats the pasta. Continue to cook and toss, until the zucchini noodles are al dente, about 4 minutes.
  
• Add a good pinch of salt and several grinds of pepper, then toss in the basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve right away, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.
  

Video

Notes

• TO MAKE AHEAD: Spiralize the zucchini noodles up to 2 days in advance, and store them in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator.
• TO STORE: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
• TO REHEAT: Gently reheat leftovers in a large skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4) | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Potassium: 920mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1510IU | Vitamin C: 75mg | Calcium: 197mg | Iron: 2mg

Related Recipes

Zucchini is a summertime favorite, and these recipes are my favorite ways to highlight this versatile veggie:

Breakfast & Brunch

Zucchini Waffles

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Side Dishes

Tomato Eggplant Zucchini Bake with Garlic and Parmesan

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Main Dishes

Blackened Zucchini Tacos

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Today, we are mastering a life skill: Baked Bacon in the oven. Here’s how to cook bacon that is impeccably crispy and uniformly cooked with less mess. You’ll call yourself a bacon perfection!

The Oven is the Best Way to Cook Bacon

The secret to perfect fried bacon is that it isn’t fried; it’s baked.

Baked bacon is one of those rare culinary situations where the method that yields a superior result (baked bacon) is actually easier than the conventional method (pan frying).

• Even Cooking. An oven-safe rack allows the heat to circulate evenly around the bacon, a key component of bacon excellence.
• Hands-Free. No standing at the stove to babysit your bacon. It cooks in the oven unattended.
• Safer. Oven bacon won’t splatter you with hot grease while you fry it.
• Restaurant-Worthy. Ever wonder how your favorite brunch, burger or BLT spot achieves those flat, thick, and magically crisp bacon slices? I’d wager my last piece that the bacon is baked. It’s the method most restaurants use.
• Bigger Batches. Cooking for a crowd? Bake two sheet pans at once.
• Easy Clean Up. Let the grease harden on the foil, then discard it. Simple!
• Healthier than Fried. The grease from the bacon drips off and is collected below the rack, which means it stays off your bacon and out of your body. I also pat the bacon to remove some extra grease and keep it crisp.

Conculsion: Oven baked bacon is easier to make, healthier, and produces better results than fried bacon (Air Fryer Bacon is another great method).

Ready to dive into how to cook perfect baked bacon? Let’s do it!

A Quick Note. While baked bacon is arguably healthier than fried bacon, it is still bacon.

Enjoy it in moderation as one tasty component of a balanced diet.

Whenever we have bacon, I like to serve it with other lean proteins, fruits, whole grains, or vegetables to make a complete meal.

How to Cook Bacon in the Oven

The ONLY Ingredient

• High-Quality Bacon. This might sound obvious, but I can’t overstate its importance: the better quality of bacon you buy, the better your final baked bacon will taste. I promise it’s worth it!

Tips for Buying Bacon

• Purchase bacon from the butcher counter at the grocery store. It’s usually only a dollar or two more than the pre-packaged stuff, but the taste is remarkably better.
• Go for the thick cut bacon (no wimpy bacon here!). It’s easier to layer onto to sandwiches, makes more of an impact when sprinkled on salads, and is extra satisfying when munched on its own.
• For flavor, focus on the quality of the bacon first. Bacon that is applewood smoked is always good, but any flavor is delicious when it’s well-sourced.

Tips for Perfect Baked Bacon

• Bake at 400 Degrees F. Some recipes recommend baking bacon at other temperatures or starting the bacon in a cold oven, but I found that a preheated 400 degrees F is the best temperature for baking bacon. It cooks the bacon evenly no matter its thickness and the bacon won’t splatter.
• Use a Rack. Not only does the rack make the bacon healthier, but it also helps make it crispy and evenly-cooked.

How Long to Bake Bacon

How long bacon should be cooked in the oven will vary based upon the thickness of your bacon and your desired crispness.

• For Thin-Cut Bacon. Regular, thin-cut bacon will typically bake in 12 minutes at 400 degrees F. If you want it extra crispy, you can let it bake a little longer, but keep a close eye on it.
• For Thick-Cut Bacon. Thicker bacon will take 14 to 20 minutes, depending upon your thickness and how crisp you would like it to be.

The time the bacon takes to cook will also vary by how many slices you are making at once.

If your sheet pan is very crowded, you may need to extend the baking time by a few minutes.

Cooked Bacon Storage Tips

• To Store. Cooked bacon will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. If it starts to smell funny or change appearance, throw it out.
• To Reheat. Recrisp your bacon slices on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees F.
• To Freeze. Store baked bacon slices in an airtight freezer-safe storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remove and thaw slices as desired.

How to Use Baked Bacon

Now that you’ve mastered the life skill of how to make oven baked bacon, it’s time to use it!

• Use It in Any Recipe That Calls for Cooked/Crumbled Bacon. In addition to the most obvious end (gobbling the slices directly from the plate), baking bacon in the oven is an ideal method any time you have a recipe that calls for adding cooked, crumbled bacon, or if you want to make a standard recipe a little more decadent. These Roasted Brussels Sprouts are delicious with a little bacon sprinkle, to name but one example.
• Loaded Potatoes. A classic Baked Potato, Air Fryer Baked Potato, or Crockpot Potato Soup are all better with bacon.
• Salads. Crumbled bacon makes salads scrumptious and extra appealing. Try BLT Chopped Salad, 7 Layer Salad, Cobb Salad, or add it to Apple Walnut Salad.
• Top Pizzas. Dice it and use it to top Naan Pizza, Ricotta Pizza, and Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pizza.
• Sandwiches and Burgers. A slice of crisp bacon is always a good choice on a BLT, Air Fryer Grilled Cheese, Turkey Burgers, and more!

Favorite Recipes Using Cooked Bacon

Appetizers

Jalapeño Poppers

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Side Dishes

Sweet Potato Salad with Bacon

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Pastas

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

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Recommended Tools for Making Bacon in the Oven

• Rimmed Baking Sheet. Your oven baked bacon BFF.
• Aluminum Foil. Adding a layer of this to your baking sheet makes cooking bacon in the oven a breeze to clean up.
• Oven-Safe Baking Rack. A key component in our crispy baked bacon.

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Baked Bacon

Delicious oven baked bacon recipe. Cooking bacon in an oven results in perfect, evenly cooked, crispy bacon every time. Healthier than fried!

Course Breakfast, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 1 to 100!

Calories 92kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon or any number of strips and thickness you like (see notes for recommendations)
• Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

• If making an amount of bacon that will fit on a single baking sheet without overlapping (about 6 to 8 slices, depending upon the bacon and sheet), place a rack in the center of your oven. If making a larger amount, place the racks in the upper and lower thirds. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
• Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy clean up (if you prefer to bake the bacon without foil, leave the foil off), then place an ovenproof baking rack on top. Spritz the baking rack lightly with nonstick spray. Arrange the bacon in a single layer on the baking rack.
  
• Bake until you reach your desired level of crispness. This could be as early as 12 minutes if you are using thinner bacon and like it less crisp or 20 minutes or more if you using a thicker cut and like your bacon really crispy. If baking two racks at once, rotate their positions halfway through.
  
• Once cooked, immediately transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate and lightly pat dry (this keeps it from getting soggy). Let cool just enough so that you don’t (completely) burn your tongue. Devour immediately or use to top salads, pastas, and sandwiches, or in any of these recipes.
• To clean up: Let the bacon grease cool and harden, then crumple it up inside the foil and discard. If you’d like to use the bacon grease for another purpose, let it cool for a few minutes, transfer it to a lidded container or jar, and refrigerate.

Video

Notes

• I like and recommend thick-cut applewood smoked bacon. The applewood smoke flavor is classic, and the thick cut provides maximum bacon crunch and full flavor. I also prefer center cut bacon when possible, as it is more lean and “meaty.” If you can get the bacon from the butcher directly or from a local supplier, that’s even better. With bacon, quality really counts, and it’s worth the splurge. We are making bacon, after all.
• TO STORE: Cooked bacon will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. If it starts to smell funny or change appearance, throw it out.
• TO REHEAT: Rewarm gently in the microwave or use at room temperature.
• TO FREEZE: Store baked bacon slices in an airtight freezer-safe storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remove and thaw slices as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bacon strip | Calories: 92kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Potassium: 44mg

We’re all about corn, zucchini, and green beans in the summer, but it’s time to show eggplant some love! This Roasted Eggplant recipe is a simple way to bring out the best in this humble purple veggie that fills farm stands this time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Eggplant Recipe

• Roasted Veggies Are the Best Veggies. Okay, I take that back: they’re definitely tied with grilled veggies. (Maybe make a batch of my Grilled Eggplant too and see which recipe comes out on top?) But! Roasted vegetables are always fabulous because they add a note of caramelization and soften crisp veggies into something tender and succulent.
• Eggplant Is Seriously Under-Rated. When cooked, eggplant becomes soft and almost buttery in texture. There’s a reason Eggplant Pasta and Eggplant Lasagna are so popular! Roasted eggplant is luscious, not spongy or bland.
• It’s Versatile. Eggplant is found in cuisines around the world, and while it’s delicious on its own, it pairs beautifully with a wide range of sauces, seasonings, and herbs. Serve it as a side dish, combine it with Roasted Red Peppers and Roasted Tomatoes for a Roasted Vegetable Salad, or toss it into your favorite jarred simmer sauce with your protein of choice.
• Outrageously Easy. Four ingredients (and three of them are likely in your pantry already!), a few minutes of prep, and no hands-on cooking time other than a quick toss at the halfway point. 

How to Make Roasted Eggplant

The Ingredients

• Eggplant. You’ll need small or medium eggplant; smaller eggplants have a more tender texture and sweeter flavor than the large globe eggplants often used to make eggplant Parmesan. Larger ones can be bitter, so I prefer the medium ones here.

• Kosher Salt. Kosher salt is always my choice for cooking.
• Ground Black Pepper. You can add a little bit extra for a more peppery flavor.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. Only a small amount of oil is needed since the eggplant is roasted on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

The Directions

1. Cut the Eggplant. I like to slice it into 1-inch rounds, then dice those rounds into cubes.

2. Season BEFORE Oiling. Be sure to line your pan with parchment paper.

3. Add Oil & Toss. Eggplant absorbs oil FAST, which is why I like to season it first, so I can start tossing the moment the oil touches it.

4. Cook. Roast the eggplant at 425 degrees F for 23 to 28 minutes, tossing at the 15-minute mark.
5. Serve. Toss again and serve hot or at room temperature. ENJOY!

Recipe Variations

• Roasted Eggplant With Pesto. Plate the roasted eggplant and drizzle it with Basil Pesto. 
• Roasted Eggplant With Tzatziki. The subtle sweetness of roasted eggplant pairs well with the tangy flavor of yogurt, so a drizzle of tzatziki is another great serving option. My favorite recipe is in The Well Plated Cookbook.
• Greek-Inspired Roasted Eggplant. Place the roasted eggplant on a platter and dress it up with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, feta, and fresh basil, parsley, oregano, or mint.

Storage Tips

• To Store. Keep leftover roasted eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To Reheat. Warm up leftovers in a 350 degrees F oven or skillet until heated through. You can also eat leftover roasted eggplant cold or at room temperature.

What to Serve with Roasted Eggplant

• Pasta. Toss roasted eggplant with Garlic Pasta or use it in Pasta Primavera. It’s also great with pasta and your favorite store-bought marinara sauce!
• Grains. Serve your roasted eggplant alongside Lemon Rice or Quinoa Salad.
• Chicken. Smoked Chicken Breast is an excellent accompaniment to this recipe when the weather’s warm enough for outdoor cooking, or make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs while you roast the eggplant.
• Mediterranean Dishes. Eggplant pairs well with Mediterranean flavors like those in my Moroccan Couscous and Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.
• Pork. Smothered Pork Chops or Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin will take your dinner to the next level and add some protein to round things out.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Knife Set. With regular sharpening, a quality knife set like this can last decades.
• Cutting Board. Eggplant is like a sponge, which means it will soak up off flavors from your cutting boards. This non-porous board will keep your eggplant from tasting like onions!
• Measuring Spoons. I swear by these magnetic measuring spoons.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Cut Uniform Pieces. Then they’ll all be done roasting at the same time and you won’t have smaller pieces of eggplant that end up burnt.
• Never Freeze Leftover Eggplant. Eggplant is not a vegetable that freezes well! The texture ends up mushy and unpleasant after freezing, thawing, and reheating.
• Don’t Add More Oil. The eggplant will soak up all of the oil you add to it, which may leave you wondering if you should add some more. Don’t do it! If you keep adding oil until the eggplant is no longer dry, you’ll end up with a sheet pan of oily, unappetizing roasted eggplant. 
• Give It Space. As with any roasted vegetable, eggplant needs breathing room so it caramelizes instead of steaming. Don’t crowd your eggplant onto the baking sheet—each cube should have some space around it and they should be arranged in an even layer.

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Roasted Eggplant

Tender and lightly caramelized, this roasted eggplant is delicious as-is or dressed up with your favorite seasonings. A fast, easy side dish!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 2 -3 servings

Calories 150kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant cut into 3/4- to 1-inch cubes (about 12 ounces eggplant or 4 cups cubed)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

• Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Place the cubed eggplant in the center and sprinkle it with the salt and pepper.
  
• Drizzle on the oil then IMMEDIATELY toss to coat the eggplant (the oil will start to absorb instantly, which is why I suggest seasoning it with salt and pepper first; if you forget and pour the oil on first, toss it immediately, then add the seasoning and toss again). Spread the pieces into an even layer, making sure they do not overlap.
  
• Roast eggplant for 23 to 28 minutes, using a spatula to toss it at the 15-minute mark, then spread it back into an even layer. When cooked, the eggplant will be tender and lightly browned in places. Remove from the oven and toss once more. Serve hot or at room temperature.
  

Notes

• TO STORE: Refrigerate leftover roasted eggplant in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• TO REHEAT: Warm up leftovers in a 350°F oven or skillet until heated through. You can also eat leftover roasted eggplant cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Potassium: 523mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 54IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg

Related Recipes

Everyone needs some easy side dishes in their back pocket! Here are some of my favorites:

Side Dishes

Roasted Eggplant

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Instant Pot

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

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Side Dishes

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

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