Jamie Oliver Baked Aubergine

If you’re after a cozy, flavorful vegetarian dish that doesn’t skimp on texture or taste, this Jamie Oliver Baked Aubergine hits the mark. With rich, roasted aubergines, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a golden, crispy topping of breadcrumbs and pine nuts, it brings warm Mediterranean vibes to your plate. I made this on a chilly evening and was amazed at how the hint of cinnamon lifted the whole dish. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

• 3 aubergines (eggplants)
• 4 spring onions (scallions)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 large handful cherry tomatoes
• 50g (½ cup) breadcrumbs
• 50g (⅓ cup) pine nuts
• 2 tbsp raisins
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

How To Make Jamie Oliver Baked Aubergine

Prep the Veg:

Start by preheating your oven to 220ºC/425ºF/gas 7. Slice the aubergines into 1cm thick rounds—keeping them even helps them roast beautifully. Finely chop the spring onions and garlic, setting them aside for later.

Roast the Aubergines:

Lay the aubergine slices in a sturdy ovenproof pan in a single layer. Brush them lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then dust with ground cinnamon and a generous pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Pop them into the oven for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for them to soften and pick up a bit of that lovely char.

Add Aromatics:

About halfway through roasting, scatter in the chopped spring onions, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. They’ll roast gently alongside the aubergine, adding sweetness and depth.

Mix the Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, pine nuts, raisins, a pinch of cinnamon, and a bit more salt and pepper. Drizzle in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and mix well. This topping gives you that irresistible crunch that takes the dish to the next level.

Final Bake:

Once the aubergines are tender and slightly caramelized, splash a bit of red wine vinegar over the pan. Then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top and return to the oven. Bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until everything is golden and crispy on top.

Why I Love This Recipe

I whipped this up for a weeknight dinner and it was such a comforting surprise. The cinnamon adds a warm, unexpected twist, and the contrast between the soft aubergines and crunchy topping is just brilliant. Even my usual meat-loving partner went back for seconds—always a win.

Recipe Tips

• Slice Evenly: Uniform aubergine slices mean even cooking and better texture.
• Toast Your Pine Nuts: Do this in a dry pan for extra flavor and crunch.
• More Sweet or Tangy? Add extra raisins for sweetness or a touch more vinegar for zing.
• Breadcrumb Swap: Use crushed nuts or gluten-free crumbs if needed.
• Bulk It Up: Serve with couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread to make it a heartier meal.

How To Store This Jamie Oliver Baked Aubergine

At Room Temperature

Let it cool slightly before serving. Don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours once cooked.

In the Fridge

Cool completely, then store in an airtight container. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days.

In the Freezer

This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the fresh veg and topping texture, but you can freeze it. Just know the topping may soften.

Reheating

Reheat in a 180ºC/350ºF oven, covered with foil for 10–15 minutes. For a crispier top, remove foil for the last few minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 190
• Carbs: 15g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 13g
• Sugar: 9g
• Fibre: 5g
• Sodium: 210mg (estimated)

Let’s Answer a Few Questions!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Totally! Prep and roast everything, then add the topping and do the final bake just before serving.

What can I use instead of pine nuts?
Chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds work great for crunch.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can swap the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Can I add cheese on top?
Sure! A sprinkle of feta or grated parmesan would be delicious.

What’s the best side dish?
Try a simple green salad or a grain like couscous or quinoa to round it out.

Try More Recipes:

• Jamie Oliver Burnt Aubergine Chilli
• Jamie Oliver Aubergine Breadcrumbs
• Jamie Oliver Lamb And Aubergine Recipe
• Jamie Oliver Aubergine And Coconut Curry