Fried Aubergine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad

Ingredients for Fried Aubergine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad

• 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves with tender stems

• 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves with tender stems

• 1 garlic clove, chopped

• 2 small green chillies, such as Thai, seeds removed, chopped, divided

• 120ml olive oil, divided

• 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more

• 180ml plain whole-milk Greek yoghurt

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 2 medium aubergines (about 675g), cut into 1 1/2" pieces

• Vegetable oil (for frying

• about 475ml )

• 450g small tomatoes (about 8), cut into wedges

• 230g Persian cucumbers (about 3), sliced

• A deep-fry thermometer

Purée coriander, parsley, garlic, half of chillies, and 60ml olive oil in a blender or food processor until very smooth; season herb oil with salt and set aside.

Whisk yoghurt, lemon juice, and remaining 60ml olive oil in a small bowl; season with salt and set yoghurt sauce aside.

Place aubergines in a colander set in the sink; season with 3/4 teaspoons salt. Let sit 30 minutes to drain, then pat dry.

Fit a medium pot with thermometer; pour in vegetable oil to measure 2". Heat over medium-high heat until thermometer registers 375°.

Working in batches and returning oil to 375° between batches, fry aubergines, turning often, until golden brown and tender, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer aubergines to paper towels to drain; season with salt. Let cool.

Combine aubergines in a large bowl with tomatoes, cucumbers, and remaining chillies; drizzle with some reserved herb oil and toss to combine. Season salad with salt.

Spoon reserved yoghurt sauce onto a platter, top with salad, and drizzle with more herb oil.

Do ahead: Herb oil and yoghurt sauce can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill separately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.