Artisanal Eggplant Preserved in Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Traditional Appetizer

Ripe eggplants, traditionally prepared

We select ripe eggplants, prepare them by hand and preserve them in oil according to Mediterranean tradition. No rushing, no machines: just hands, time and the right ingredients.

Slow processing preserves the eggplant's texture, the aroma of the garden and the balance between its natural sweetness, the fragrance of garlic and the crisp note of crusco pepper.

Awarded WineHunter Rosso 2026

Minnelea's Eggplant Preserved in Oil has received the WineHunter Rosso 2026, an award from the Merano WineFestival that recognises products with a distinctive identity, quality and gastronomic character.

A small twist on tradition

Instead of the classic hot chilli pepper used in old recipes, we chose dried horn pepper — known in Lucania as crusco pepper. It's a small variation, but it changes everything: it adds a more modern, flavourful aromatic note, less pungent than chilli, with that characteristic hint of sun-dried tomato and warm sweetness.

A choice that respects tradition while offering an evolution of it, without betraying its soul.

Preserved in extra virgin olive oil

The eggplants are immersed in extra virgin olive oil with a clove of garlic, dried crusco pepper and a hint of white wine vinegar. A pinch of salt completes the recipe.

The oil becomes part of the product: once the jar is empty, it's an aromatic dressing you shouldn't throw away — perfect for hot pasta, bruschetta or a seasonal salad.

How to enjoy them

They're perfect as an appetiser, served on a platter alongside cured meats and cheeses. On toasted rustic bread, they become a Southern Italian classic. For gourmet pairings, they are at their best with buffalo mozzarella, where the crusco pepper's sweetness and the mozzarella's freshness create a clean balance.

A jar to keep in the pantry for when you need a proper appetiser with a touch of originality.

Price, size and where to buy

The 200 g jar, containing 190 g of drained eggplant, costs €7.90: €41.58 per kg of drained product. We sell online, directly from the people who make them: delivery in Italy takes 3 business days, with free shipping on orders over €27 (€5 below that). Add more jars to the same cart and your discount increases automatically: −10% on 12 jars, −15% on 18, −20% on 24.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I buy eggplant preserved in oil?

Here, online, directly from the producer. Delivery in Italy in 3 business days.

Are larger sizes available?

We sell 200 g jars to retail customers. Bars, restaurants and shops can order the 580 g professional-size jar.

How long do they keep once opened?

In the refrigerator, always covered with oil, for up to 7 days.

What do they pair well with?

On a platter with cured meats and cheeses, on toasted bread bruschetta, or with buffalo mozzarella.

Ingredients

Eggplant, extra virgin olive oil, dried crusco pepper, garlic, white wine vinegar, salt.

Origin

Made in Italy by Azienda Agricola Minnelea.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place. Once opened, keep refrigerated and covered with its oil, and consume within 7 days.

Size

Retail glass jar with a twist-off lid, net weight 200 g (drained weight varies depending on the product).