My newest obsession! Zaalouk, means in Arabic to smash or purée. The eggplant is roasted and then added to tomatoes that have been cooked down into a jam-like consistency. Spiced with cumin, paprika, and a dash of lemon, it is a positively addictive dip served with pita or crackers. But it is also equally delicious as a spread on sandwiches or eaten as a cooked salad. Even if you don’t like eggplant, I’ll bet you’ll love this dish!

This is one of my favorite summer dishes. The word gratin has two meanings: one is an oval-shaped baking dish; second, a topping that is browned. You can use whatever baking dish you have, it will not affect the taste. The onions, garlic, and tomatoes are cooked down to a jam-like consistency, topped with layers of eggplant and a ricotta-yogurt mixture, finished with a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese that is slightly browned. This dish is fantastic for great entertaining since it can be made ahead. You can serve it as a starter, or alongside your main dish. I love it the next day with a fried egg on top for breakfast or a light lunch.