Eggplant Tahini Blend (Print-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

01 - 1 or 2 large eggplants (around 2 pounds total)
02 - About 3 tablespoons of quality olive oil
03 - 2 to 3 tablespoons of roasted tahini (sesame paste)
04 - 1 or 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
05 - Half a teaspoon of powdered cumin
06 - Juice from one small lemon or lime (roughly 2 1/2 tablespoons)
07 - A small dash of salt and a sprinkle of cayenne to taste
08 - 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Crank up your oven to 400°F and get it warming up.
02 - Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise. Cover a baking sheet with foil, poke some holes in the eggplants using a fork, and brush some olive oil on both sides. Place them cut side down on the tray.
03 - Bake the eggplants for around 35–40 minutes until they're super soft inside.
04 - Leave the eggplants for about 15 minutes to cool off a bit. Then dig out the soft insides and drop them into a mixing bowl.
05 - Add all the other ingredients to the bowl (save a tablespoon of olive oil for topping). Mash and mix it all together with a fork until smooth.
06 - Pair with crispy veggies or warm pita. Add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it.