Melanzane a scapece (Marinated Eggplant)

Step 1

Trim off the stems of the eggplant and, depending on their size, cut them into quarters or halves (or thick slices, if large).

Step 2

Bring a big pot of well-salted water to the boil and drop in the eggplant pieces. Boil until tender but not mushy.

Step 3

Meanwhile, mix the marinade ingredients together in a mixing bowl. Taste for seasoning. If you think it needs it, add more salt, red pepper and/or vinegar to get the taste you like. The mixture should be very savory but not overwhelming.

Step 4

When the eggplant is tender, remove to a colander and let drain and cool off. When the eggplant is cool enough to handle, gently squeezing out any excess liquid with a paper towel, lay the pieces out in a baking dish or other shallow receptacle.

Step 5

Spoon the marinade over the eggplant. It should not quite cover the pieces. Marinate for at least 2-3 hours.

Step 6

Serve the eggplant, if you like sprinkled with minced parsley and additional red pepper flakes for color and piquancy. Perhaps a light sprinkling of salt, too, if it needs it.