The cherished moments of Easter, Christmas, and even ordinary Sunday lunches held a special place in our family’s traditions. These were occasions when the heart of our home, my beloved grandmother, would shine in all her culinary glory, weaving tales of love and togetherness through the art of cooking. It was during these beautiful gatherings that she would unveil her most treasured recipes, dishes that transcended generations and filled our souls with warmth.

One such culinary masterpiece was her Romanian Eggplant Salad. This delightful creation held a permanent spot on the grand Easter and Christmas spreads that graced our dining table. As we gathered with eager hearts and empty stomachs, the anticipation of savouring this exquisite salad would fill the room.

For my grandmother, each dish was a canvas, and her ingredients were strokes of love. The Eggplant Salad was no exception. She began by roasting the eggplants until their skins were gently wrinkled, their tender flesh infused with a smoky aroma. Carefully peeling away the charred exterior, she revealed the velvety heart of the eggplants, which she chopped and allowed to drain, ensuring the perfect texture.

Then, in a bowl, she mixed the eggplant with minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and fresh parsley, creating a symphony of flavours and textures. But the secret to making this salad truly extraordinary lay in her homemade mayo, a creamy masterpiece she crafted with love and expertise. With its rich, velvety texture, her mayo bound the salad ingredients together in perfect harmony.

The Romanian Eggplant Salad, adorned with a fragrant homemade mayo, was not just a side dish; it was a work of art that reflected her dedication to preserving the culinary traditions of our family and our homeland. It was a tribute to the rich tapestry of Romanian flavours, an ode to the gatherings that brought our family closer, and a testament to the enduring love she showered upon us.

Whether it was a grand Easter or Christmas feast, or a simple Sunday lunch, this salad had a place of honor on the table. As we partook of its creamy, smoky goodness, we could taste the history and the love that my grandmother had poured into every bite. It was a dish that transcended seasons and occasions, and like the memories it created, it became a treasure passed down through the generations.

So, as we approach these special times, I invite you to bring a touch of tradition and warmth to your own gatherings with my grandmother’s Romanian Eggplant Salad. Serve it with love, alongside the stories and memories it carries, and make every meal a celebration of the heart.