It’s the Little Things {Eggplant Tomato Caponata}

I’ve been thinking lately about some of the little things that make life sweeter.

Like a perfect husband-made chocolate that tastes like a Reese’s peanut butter cup, only 10 banillion times better.

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Or a puppa who will let you ambush her, then come running to greet you if you’re out of her sight for five minutes.

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Or having a dinner party with Peter’s colleague, her husband and their two adorable kids, and watching Peter give each kiddie a carrot with greens so they could pretend they were Bugs Bunny. Then listening to them squeal as they dipped marshmallows and pretzels in our chocolate tempering machine. They’re still talking about the machine, apparently.

Or this veggerific appetizer I made for the dinner party. Sweet and tangy all at once, this caponata is something I will definitely make again, with or without toast.

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The recipe is adapted from this one. As you may have guessed, I left out the celery. Feel free to add it back it. I won’t judge … much 😉

Eggplant Tomato Caponata

  Prep Time: 10 minutes

  Cook Time: 2-4 hours

  Keywords: slow-cooker saute appetizer vegetarian eggplant

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil (if not using slow cooker)
  • 2 vine tomatoes, chopped (can use canned)
  • 1 small eggplant (about 12 ounces), peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium zucchini, top removed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3/4 cup tomato puree
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried or frozen basil
  • 1/3 cup green olives, chopped or whole
  • 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
  • 1 large loaf crusty bread, cut into 1/2-inch slices (about 18-20) and lightly toasted

Instructions

Mix tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, onion, tomato puree, vinegar, sugar, and basil. If using slow cooker, cover and cook on high for 4 hours. If using the stove, heat canola oil in medium saucepan and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Stir in olives (if chopped) and capers. Serve warm, at room temperature, or cold. Spoon about 2 tablespoons onto each toasted bread slice. Top with whole olives if desired.

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Q: What are some of the small things you’re grateful for?

17 Comments

  1. OMG I want those chocolates. Badly.

    And the caponata sounds delicious! I tend to just eat it with a spoon when I make it, or over polenta, but it would be great as an app also!

  2. Lovely little caponata starter. Next time try grating a bit of dark chocolate into it, takes it to a whole new flavor profile…=)

    I’m grateful for the kitchen. My sanctuary. My playground, where I get to let my creativity flow.

    Be well

    1. Chocolate – what a fantastic idea, Laz! Will try next time!

      1. You will not regret it…=)

  3. I love that you guys still have your friends-with-kids over. We are always weary of bringing Little Man to homes of friends with no kids and I’m always heartened to read when kids have a good time. I guess I’m a worrier for no reason. I think I need some of Peter’s peanut butter cups 🙂

    1. I love having kids over! Bring your little man over anytime 🙂

  4. The homemade peanut butter cups sound good and so does the caponata.

    I am grateful for the kid who still thinks I am great at the moment! 🙂

    1. I think you’re pretty great, too! 🙂

  5. You make a bold claim regarding the chocolates. We need proof.

    xoxo M&M

    1. The quality of the chocolates has been called into question by the venerable M&M! I think I’ll have to send you a sample of the next batch 😉

  6. The chocolate is stunning….Your life is a blessing. Thanks for sharing.

    Velva

  7. Once Hubby brings over a crusty baguette bread…I’ll be dreaming of ‘Caponata’…love the stuff. Sadly, no eggplants in my fridge this week. Oh, but I can make chocolates ;o)
    BTW…can I bring over my pup to have a play date with yours ;o))

    Have a great week,
    Claudia

  8. I agree! It really is all about the little things! I’m soooo grateful to my husband who had dinner ready for me when I came home tonight, cleaned the dishes and even just brought me tea – makes the day end on such a nice note!

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