Escalivada (Roasted Vegetables): A Catalonian Delight

Escalivada is a traditional Catalonian dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its simplicity and robust flavors. This dish is made by roasting a variety of vegetables, most commonly eggplant, red bell peppers, and onions, and then dressing them with olive oil, salt, and sometimes a touch of vinegar. Escalivada can be served as a side dish, a topping for bread, or even as a light main course. Its smoky, sweet, and savory flavors make it a versatile and beloved part of Catalan gastronomy.

History of Escalivada

The name “escalivada” comes from the Catalan word “escalivar,” which means “to cook in ashes” or “to roast.” Traditionally, these vegetables were roasted over open flames or buried in the hot ashes of a wood fire, giving them a distinctive smoky flavor. This method of cooking has ancient roots and is reflective of the resourcefulness and simplicity of Mediterranean cooking, where the quality of the ingredients and basic cooking methods are paramount.

Ingredients

The beauty of escalivada lies in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make a traditional escalivada:

• 2 large eggplants
• 3 red bell peppers
• 2 large onions
• 3-4 ripe tomatoes (optional)
• 4 cloves of garlic (optional, for added flavor)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt
• Red wine vinegar (optional)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme, optional)

Preparation

1. Preparing the Vegetables:
   • Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Wash the eggplants, red bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes (if using).
   • Pierce the eggplants a few times with a fork to prevent them from bursting in the oven.
   • Leave the red bell peppers and tomatoes whole.
   • Cut the onions in half, leaving the skin on, which will help keep them intact during roasting.
   • If using garlic, you can roast the cloves whole, unpeeled.
2. Roasting the Vegetables:
   • Place all the vegetables on a large baking sheet. You can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
   • Drizzle the vegetables with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil, ensuring they are well coated.
   • Sprinkle with salt to taste.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, turning the vegetables occasionally to ensure even cooking. The vegetables should be charred in spots and very tender. The bell peppers should be blistered and easy to peel.
3. Peeling and Slicing:
   • Once the vegetables are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
   • Peel the skin off the bell peppers and tomatoes. The skins should come off easily.
   • Peel the onions if desired.
   • Remove the seeds and stems from the bell peppers.
   • Slice the eggplants, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes into strips or bite-sized pieces.
   • If using roasted garlic, squeeze the softened garlic out of its skin and mix it with the vegetables.
4. Assembling the Dish:
   • Arrange the sliced vegetables on a serving platter.
   • Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar if desired.
   • Sprinkle with additional salt to taste.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.

Serving

Escalivada can be enjoyed in various ways:

• As a tapa: Serve it with crusty bread for a delightful appetizer.
• As a side dish: Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
• As a topping: Use it to top pizzas, sandwiches, or salads for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.

Escalivada is best served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. It can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Conclusion

Escalivada is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Its smoky, sweet, and savory flavors make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether served as a tapa, a side dish, or a light main course, escalivada is sure to bring a taste of Catalonia to your table. So gather your fresh vegetables, fire up the oven, and enjoy the delightful simplicity of this classic Mediterranean dish.