There are two ways to cook the eggplant:

Baking method (super easy and best for feeding larger crowds):

• Preheat Oven to 450˚F. Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Place rack in the middle of your oven.
• Season each eggplant on both sides lightly with sea salt and pepper. Brush both sides generously with extra light olive oil.
• Bake at 450˚F for 12-15 min or until the slices are soft and browning on the bottom. Remove the eggplant from the oven and set aside to cool.

Sautéing Method:

• Cut eggplant into 1/2-inch slices and sprinkle each side evenly with sea salt and pepper.
• Set up your dipping station: pour flour in a flat bottomed dish. In a separate flat bottomed bowl, use a fork to beat your two eggs (this is your egg wash).
• Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium/high heat. Fill it with 1/4" oil and let the oil heat up before adding anything to the pan.
• Dip both sides of your eggplant into flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs (the egg keeps the eggplant from soaking up oil).
• Saute your eggplant in batches. Use a spatula to slide them into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side), turning once. Drain eggplant on paper towels. Add more oil if necessary until finished sautéing.

To assemble the eggplant sandwiches:

• In a small bowl, combine 4 Tbsp Mayo and press in 1 garlic clove. Mix well and set aside.
• Toast the cut side of each chiabatta sandwich roll until golden brown. Remove from pan and once it has cooled down a bit, spread about 1 Tbsp of garlicky mayo on the toasted side, top with 2 slices of eggplant followed by a slice or two of tomato.
• Cover with whatever toppings you like. I had basil in my yard so I used that and it was super tasty. The basil added an amazing freshness to this
• luscious thing I call an open face sandwich. Enjoy!