If you’re craving something fresh, satisfying, and a little bit fancy, these Eggplant and Goat Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Tarragon Sauce are a must-try. Picture it: soft, caramelized eggplant slices paired with creamy, tangy goat cheese, all sandwiched between crusty, toasted bread. And as if that wasn’t enough, a rich, flavorful tomato tarragon sauce brings it all together in the most delicious way. It’s like comfort food with a gourmet twist—perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a crowd-pleasing vegetarian option at your next get-together. Trust me, every bite will have you hooked!
Why You’ll Love Eggplant and Goat Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Tarragon Sauce
This sandwich is packed with flavor and texture, making it the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and aromatic. Here’s why it will become your new favorite:
Bold and Flavorful
The sweetness of the roasted eggplant and the richness of the goat cheese create a pairing that’s simply irresistible. Add in the herby, tangy tomato tarragon sauce, and you’ve got a flavor explosion that will make you want to take another bite (or five).
Fresh Ingredients, Easy to Make
Despite its sophisticated flavor, this sandwich is simple to make. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few fresh ingredients, and you’ll have a meal that feels special and indulgent.
Vegetarian Delight
Whether you’re a meat eater or not, this sandwich is hearty enough to satisfy everyone. The combination of eggplant and goat cheese gives you plenty of protein and richness, making it a fulfilling meal for any time of day.
Versatile
You can serve these sandwiches as a lunch, dinner, or even as part of a larger spread for a party or get-together. And they’re perfect for meal prepping, too—just assemble everything and toast right before serving for a quick, flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Eggplant
Eggplant is the star of this sandwich. When roasted, it becomes tender and slightly sweet, adding a lovely depth to the dish. Slice it thinly for easy layering and a nice bite.
Goat Cheese
Creamy and tangy goat cheese is the perfect complement to the eggplant. It adds richness and a little zing, making the sandwich extra indulgent.
Bread
You’ll want to use a hearty, crusty bread for this sandwich. A fresh baguette or ciabatta works wonderfully, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling and soft eggplant.
Tomato
The tomato in the sauce gives it a bright, fresh flavor. Use ripe, juicy tomatoes to bring out the best taste.
Tarragon
Tarragon has a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor that works beautifully with the tomato sauce. It adds a fresh, herbal note that elevates the entire sandwich.
Olive Oil
For roasting the eggplant and adding richness to the sauce, olive oil is key. It adds depth to the dish and helps bring all the flavors together.
Garlic
Garlic is a must for both the roasted eggplant and the tomato tarragon sauce. It brings warmth and a savory punch to the dish.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~350 kcal
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 7g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is golden and tender.
Step 2: Make the Tomato Tarragon Sauce
While the eggplant roasts, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, and a handful of tarragon. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast your bread slices lightly. Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on one slice of each sandwich. Layer the roasted eggplant slices on top, followed by a spoonful of the tomato tarragon sauce.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Top with the second slice of bread and serve immediately while warm. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh tarragon or a drizzle of olive oil.
How to Serve Eggplant and Goat Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Tarragon Sauce
With a Side Salad
Pair this sandwich with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The freshness of the greens contrasts nicely with the richness of the sandwich.
With Roasted Potatoes
Roasted or crispy potatoes are a perfect side to serve with these sandwiches. Their crispy exterior complements the soft and creamy interior of the sandwich.
With a Light Soup
A light vegetable soup, like a tomato basil or a minestrone, would be an excellent pairing. The warmth of the soup is a great balance to the savory sandwich.
As Part of a Larger Meal
Serve these sandwiches alongside other dishes at a casual dinner party or picnic. They’re perfect for making a meal feel special and inviting.
Additional Tips
- Make it Vegan: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try swapping the goat cheese for a plant-based cheese or hummus.
- Get Creative with Toppings: You can add arugula, spinach, or even a few slices of avocado to give your sandwich some extra texture and flavor.
- Use Grilled Eggplant: If you want an even smokier flavor, try grilling the eggplant instead of roasting it.
- Meal Prep Friendly: You can prepare the roasted eggplant and tomato tarragon sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the sandwiches when ready to serve.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A1: Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a creamy tang, you could use ricotta, feta, or even mozzarella for a different flavor.
Q2: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare the eggplant and tomato tarragon sauce in advance. Just store them in the fridge and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze leftovers?
A3: It’s best to store the components separately in the fridge, but the eggplant and sauce should freeze well for up to a month.
Q4: How do I know when the eggplant is done?
A4: The eggplant should be golden and tender, with a slightly crispy edge. It should easily give when pierced with a fork.
Q5: How can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
A5: Use a gluten-free bread variety to make the sandwich gluten-free. There are many great options available!
Conclusion
These Eggplant and Goat Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Tarragon Sauce are the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re eating at a chic bistro, without the effort. They’re simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for any time you’re craving something special. With the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and fresh ingredients, this sandwich will quickly become one of your favorites. So go ahead, treat yourself to something delicious, and enjoy the wonderful flavors that come with every bite!
Print
Eggplant and Goat Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Tarragon Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Eggplant and Goat Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Tarragon Sauce are a delicious, vegetarian option perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender roasted eggplant slices are layered with creamy goat cheese, fresh greens, and topped with a tangy tomato tarragon sauce. This dish is bursting with flavors and makes for a hearty, yet light sandwich!
Ingredients
For the Eggplant:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
For the Goat Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or parsley, if preferred)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Tarragon Sauce:
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 tsp dried tarragon)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling the Sandwich:
- 4 hearty sandwich rolls, ciabatta or whole-grain bread works well
- Fresh spinach or arugula (optional, for extra greens)
- Extra olive oil for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and slightly browned. - Make the Goat Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Set aside. - Make the Tomato Tarragon Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes) and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices. Stir in the tarragon, balsamic vinegar, sugar (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 more minutes, then remove from heat. - Assemble the Sandwiches:
Slice the sandwich rolls in half. If desired, drizzle a little olive oil on the cut sides of the bread and toast them lightly in a hot pan or under the broiler for extra crispiness.On the bottom half of each roll, spread a generous amount of the goat cheese mixture. Layer with the roasted eggplant slices, then top with a few spoonfuls of the tomato tarragon sauce. Add some fresh spinach or arugula if you like extra greens. Top with the other half of the roll.
- Serve:
Serve the sandwiches warm with a side of your choice, such as a simple salad, chips, or roasted potatoes.
Notes
- You can make the tomato tarragon sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat it when assembling the sandwiches.
- If you prefer a more robust flavor, add a few dashes of hot sauce or chili flakes to the tomato sauce for a spicy kick.
- Try adding roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for additional depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches, Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg