Sponsored by Metro, a Harvest Champion sponsor of Lift UP's Making Connections Event
Dear friend,
Eggplant is a striking and versatile ingredient, yet it is often overlooked in home kitchens. Many people admire its deep purple hue and glossy skin but hesitate to cook with it due to uncertainty about preparation. However, when properly prepared, eggplant transforms into a rich, flavorful, and nutritious dish that is both satisfying and easy to make.
At Supper Club, a cooking and nutrition class within Lift UP's Adopt a Building program, participants often want to learn how to cook with eggplant—an ingredient that frequently appears in their Lift UP Delivered Groceries.
The Effortless Eggplant Parmesan recipe has proven to be a favorite, impressing even those who were initially hesitant to try the vegetable. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking method, the dish highlights eggplant’s ability to become tender, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
"Eggplant is one of those ingredients that surprises people once they know how to use it. It's hearty, nutritious, and incredibly versatile. At Supper Club, we're all about making healthy eating accessible and enjoyable, and this dish has been a huge hit," says Natasha Butcher Cook, Supper Club Manager.
The Benefits of Eating Eggplant
Beyond its delicious taste, eggplant offers several health benefits:
Heart Health – Rich in fiber and antioxidants, eggplant helps lower cholesterol and supports cardiovascular wellness.
Blood Sugar Control – With a low glycemic index, eggplant can aid in regulating blood sugar levels.
Brain Boosting – The anthocyanins that give eggplant its deep purple color also support brain function and may help reduce inflammation.
Culinary Versatility – Whether roasted, sautéed, or blended into dips, eggplant adapts well to different cooking methods and flavors.
Supper Club participants at The Medallion, Williams Plaza, and Park Tower recently prepared this eggplant dish, gaining confidence in cooking with the ingredient at home. Nearly 90% of surveyed clients have reported improved ability to manage their health since receiving food from Lift UP, with cooking education playing a key role in their wellness.
Join the 2025 Making Connections Event
This blog post is sponsored by Metro, a Harvest Champion sponsor of Lift UP's upcoming Making Connections event on April 23rd at The Loft at 8th Ave. This year's theme, “Roots of Resilience: Cultivating a Sustainable Future,”will highlight the deep connections and impactful growth achieved through community support. Metro has been a vital partner in Lift UP's ongoing efforts to reduce food waste and nourish our community.
The event will be an opportunity to celebrate achievements in food security, sustainability, and community partnerships while looking ahead to future initiatives. Join us for this inspiring gathering—Buy your tickets now!
Warm Regards,
Stephanie Barr, Executive Director
Food brings us together.
