Roasted Eggplant and Red Pepper Sliders

Name: Roasted Eggplant and Red Pepper Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds; 2 red bell peppers, halved and seeded; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 slider buns; Fresh arugula for serving; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love making Roasted Eggplant and Red Pepper Sliders for gatherings with family and friends. The combination of smoky roasted eggplant with sweet red peppers creates a delicious flavor profile that everyone enjoys. I often serve them with a tangy yogurt sauce that perfectly complements the earthy flavors. These sliders are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Trust me, they will impress your guests, and I always feel proud when I serve them at my table!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T21:49:27.946Z

Making Roasted Eggplant and Red Pepper Sliders has become a cherished tradition in my home. I love experimenting with different spices and toppings while perfecting the balance of flavors. Recently, I discovered that adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the eggplant while roasting enhances the smokiness, creating a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.

One day, I decided to serve these sliders during a family gathering, and everyone couldn’t get enough! The sliders were gone within minutes, which inspired me to make a double batch the next time. This dish is not just a favorite; it brings people together, creating memories filled with laughter and deliciousness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Smoky flavor from roasted vegetables brings depth to each bite.
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.
Healthy ingredients ensure you can indulge guilt-free!

      

Getting the Right Texture

Achieving the perfect texture for the roasted eggplant is crucial to the overall success of these sliders. When slicing the eggplant, aim for rounds that are about 1/2 inch thick. This thickness allows them to cook evenly and become tender while still holding their shape. If you find that the slices absorb too much oil and become greasy during roasting, try salting them before the oil application. Letting the salted slices sit for about 15 minutes will draw out excess moisture, resulting in a firmer, more flavorful final product.

Roasting temperatures can vary, but I recommend sticking to 400°F (200°C) for this recipe. At this temperature, the eggplant will cook through and develop a wonderfully caramelized exterior. Keep an eye on the red peppers; they should begin to char slightly at the skin for optimal flavor. If you notice them browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning while allowing the eggplant to finish cooking.

Customizing Your Yogurt Sauce

The yogurt sauce is a game-changer for these sliders, and it’s incredibly versatile! If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of sriracha to the yogurt mix. You can also experiment with herbs; fresh dill or mint would add a refreshing twist that complements the earthy flavors of the roasted vegetables beautifully. Remember, the key is to balance the sauce’s tanginess with the sweetness of the peppers and the smokiness of the eggplant.

If you prefer a lighter version, try substituting the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, which can work just as well. Just ensure you choose one that has a similar texture to Greek yogurt for the best results. Additionally, if you’re looking to prepare this sauce ahead of time, it can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will develop even more flavor as the ingredients meld together.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
2 red bell peppers, halved and seeded
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slider buns
Fresh arugula for serving

For the Yogurt Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine these ingredients for a delightful burst of flavors in your sliders!

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the eggplant slices and red pepper halves in olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Roast the Veggies

Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the peppers are slightly charred. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Sliders

Cut the slider buns in half and layer each with a slice of roasted eggplant, a roasted red pepper half, and a dollop of the yogurt sauce. Add a few leaves of arugula and close the buns.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm, and enjoy the smoky flavors combined with the creamy yogurt sauce!

Enjoy these delicious sliders with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider roasting the eggplant and peppers with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary.

Serving Suggestions

These roasted eggplant and red pepper sliders pair beautifully with various sides. For a refreshing complement, consider serving them with a simple arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of the arugula work wonderfully with the smoky flavors of the sliders. You could also add some baked sweet potato fries on the side for a wholesome, comforting touch.

For a fun twist, try serving the sliders on mini pita breads instead of traditional buns. This adds a Mediterranean flair that pairs seamlessly with the yogurt sauce. You could also turn these into a visually appealing appetizer by skewering the assembled sliders with toothpicks and serving them as bite-sized portions at parties.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the roasted vegetables and slider buns separately to maintain their texture. Place the roasted eggplant and red peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 3 days. For the slider buns, you can keep them in a paper bag to prevent them from getting soggy. Reheat the veggies in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive their smoky flavor before assembling.

These sliders also freeze well if you want to prepare them in advance. After roasting the eggplant and peppers, let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above for a quick meal solution.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini and mushrooms also work great in these sliders.

→ How can I make these sliders vegan?

Use a non-dairy yogurt substitute instead of Greek yogurt for the sauce.

→ Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the vegetables a day in advance and store them in the fridge.

→ What type of bread works best for sliders?

Any small sandwich rolls or pita bread will work wonderfully!