Eggplant can be tricky to prepare – either too greasy or too mushy or just plain dry. This technique is an easy fix, and healthy, too, since it’s light on the oil.

Yield: 4–6 servings

Preheat oven to 375˚F.

Slice eggplant in half lengthwise, and place skin-side down on a sheet tray lined with parchment paper. Make 7 (1 1/2-inch) slices in each half of eggplant.

Add oil to a sauté pan on medium-low heat. Add garlic and za’atar, and cook until garlic is lightly browned. Add lemon juice, and mix. Take a spoonful of garlic-oil mixture, and stuff inside where eggplant is sliced. Repeat process until each slice is stuffed with garlic-oil mixture. Brush top of eggplant with remaining oil from pan, and season with salt and pepper.

Bake until eggplant is very soft and lightly browned, about 40–50 minutes.