Caponata Recipe

1. Place eggplant in colander, sprinkle with salt and let drain for 1 hour.

2. Heat 2 T oil in large flameproof casserole or dutch oven. Pat eggplant dry and add to the casserole. Saute over medium heat until soft and lightly browned, 10 min. Using slotted spoon, remove eggplant and set aside. Add remaining oil, then onion, bell peppers, and celery to casserole. Saute over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, 10 minutes. Return eggplant to casserole. Add tomatoes, pepper, oregano, basil, garlic, parsley, olives, and capers. Simmer until the veges are tender, 45 minutes. If the mixture starts sticking while cooking, add reserved juice in small amounts. Serve hot or at room temperature. I make multiple recipes of this and freeze in serving sizes. Great warm on toasted baguette slices with goat cheese!