Roasted Eggplant Rounds Topped With Olive Tapenade And Artichoke-Roasted Red Pepper Spread

1. 1

   Place a large, preferably flat colander over a bowl; lay out the eggplant rounds and sprinkle liberally with salt each row. Cover with a slightly smaller plate and place something heavy on top. Set a side for about 1 hour.

2. 2

   To make the spread: In a large skillet heat the extra virgin oil on medium heat. Add onion, salt, red pepper flakes and the Italian seasoning and cook stirring occasionally until softened; add garlic, cook for 2 minutes; then add artichokes, mix well and cook until the artichokes are very tender, about 15-20 minutes.

3. 3

   Add roasted red pepper and vinegar; cook, stirring occasionally, until all liquid is evaporated, taste and if needed, add some salt. Turn of the heat; mix in black pepper and about a tablespoon of chopped parsley.

4. 4

   Using a food processor for a smooth consistency or a potato masher for a coarser, whirl or mash until the spread is homogeneous. Set a side.

5. 5

   To roast the eggplants and make the olive tapenade: Rinse a few times eggplants rounds and pat them dry. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

6. 6

   In small sauce pan heat the 1/2 cup of the pure olive oil; add the anchovy and cook on medium heat until completely dissolved. Turn down the heat, add garlic and continue cooking until garlic is soft and just starts to brown. Remove from stove and strain thru a fine strainer to a small bowl. Reserve garlic.

7. 7

   Using a pastry brash generously spread the anchovy and garlic infused oil on both sides of eggplants rounds, place them on a cookie sheet (you may need two cookie sheets), lined with parchment paper, transfer to the oven and roast until softened and golden brown, about 25 minutes. Cool to room temperature.

8. 8

   To make the olive tapenade: Place olives in the bowl of a small food processor; pulse until finely chopped. Add the reserved garlic and pulse to combine. Scrape down sides of processor and add the remaining infused olive oil, lemon juice and mayonnaise; pulse to combine.

9. 9

   To assemble the appetizer: Divide olive mixture evenly between eggplant rounds, spreading to cover; then put a heaping teaspoon of artichoke-red pepper spread.

10. 10

    If using Capers, saute them for a few minutes until they warmed throw; then sprinkle on top of the spread.

11. 11

    The olive tapenade and artichoke-red pepper spread can be made 1 day ahead, kept refrigerated and brought to room temperature before serving.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.