FOOD . Top 5

Eggplant Dishes

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Published: May 20, 2008

1 Eggplant Lasagna

Figs, 2501 Meredith St., 215-978-8440

This outstanding appetizer is actually made without pasta, and that — along with the tasty, tangy tomato-basil sauce — is what makes it so distinctive. Succulent slices of roasted eggplant are layered under bubbling goat cheese and topped with sauce and shaved Parmesan. Served in its own personal pan, this dish definitely deserves to be an entrée.

2 Baingan Bharta

Karma, 114 Chestnut St., 215-925-1444

Karma's take on this traditional Indian dish consists of roasted cubed eggplant, chickpeas and masala — spiced way up with curry and chili. Whether you eat this fiery delight with rice or naan (or both), keep water or a mango lassi handy to quench the flames.

3 Eggplant Parmesan

Villa di Roma, 936 S. Ninth St., 215-592-1295

Five golden deep-fried coins of eggplant, smothered with marinara and mozzarella and served with a side of spaghetti — eggplant Parm's as unpretentious as it gets. This meal is a classic, and Villa di Roma's friendly staff serves it with signature South Philly hospitality.

4 La Colabaza

Pico de Gallo, 1501 South St., 215-772-3003

Don't fill up on chips so you can finish every bite of the sizable eggplant burrito at this funky Mexi spot. Pico de Gallo wraps a flour tortilla around virgin olive oil, diced eggplant, roasted peppers and zucchini. Sans rice and beans, this delish vegetarian dish can be kicked up a notch with the hot sauces on the table.

5 Meletzanosalata

Effie's, 1127 Pine St., 215-592-8333

This authentic Greek appetizer — a chunky dip consisting of mashed fresh-roasted eggplant mixed with roasted red peppers, garlic and olive oil and topped with a green olive — is served with a basket of perfectly toasted pita triangles. A great primer for an eggplant extravaganza — especially if you plan on having Effie's moussaka as your main course.