Eggplant in Italian: Learn How to Say Melanzana

Take a linguistic journey and discover the Italian word for eggplant, “melanzana,” a staple in the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine and language.

What’s Italian for Eggplant?

The Italian word for eggplant is “melanzana,” pronounced as meh-lan-ZAH-nah, with an accent on the third syllable. “Melanzana” is a feminine singular noun. Its plural form is “melanzane.”

By definition, “melanzana” is a berry known in English by a variety of names, including “eggplant,” “aubergine,” “brinjal,” and “guinea squash.” However, in Italian, this versatile vegetable is uniformly known as “melanzana.”

60 Seconds: Eggplant in Italian Culture

Watch the 60-second video above to quickly grasp how to use the word “melanzana” (English translation: eggplant), as it’s woven into the Italian language and cuisine.

Using ‘Melanzana’ in Everyday Italian

Try practicing the examples below to use the word “melanzana” in your Italian conversations. 

Italian	English Translation
Vorrei una melanzana, per favore.	I would like an eggplant, please.
Vorrei un piatto di Melanzane alla Parmigiana.	I would like a plate of Eggplant Parmigiana.
Il cuoco taglia le melanzane.	The cook slices the eggplants.

Italian Cuisine and Eggplants

Eggplants play a central role in Italian cooking. This vegetable is a key ingredient in some of Italy’s most famous dishes.

Many traditional and beloved Italian recipes prominently feature this vibrant, deeply flavored vegetable. Let’s see four of the most popular ones.

1. Eggplant Parmigiana (Melanzane alla Parmigiana)

This is one of the most popular eggplant dishes in Italy (and worldwide). Melanzane alla Parmigiana is a layered casserole dish that combines eggplant slices with tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, and basil. [Try the Recipe]

2. Eggplant Rollups (Involtini di Melanzane)

Involtini di Melanzane is a delightful dish of rolled eggplants stuffed with cheese and herbs, often baked to perfection and served with a rich tomato sauce.

3. Caponata

Caponata is a Sicilian eggplant dish with celery, tomatoes, and olives that is often served as a spread on bread or as a side dish. [Try the Recipe]

4. Pasta alla Norma

This dish features Italian pasta served with a sauce of fried eggplant, tomatoes, and grated ricotta cheese.

These recipes bring out eggplant’s distinctive flavor and delightful texture, making it a staple in Italian cooking. Whether grilled, baked, or layered in a hearty dish, its versatility is celebrated in Italian kitchens.

Preparing Melanzane for Cooking

To enhance the flavor of melanzane in your dishes, begin by thoroughly rinsing, draining, and seasoning them with salt. This first process helps to eliminate any bitterness from the flesh. 

Melanzane (eggplants in Italian) are incredibly versatile – you can steam, grill, roast, sauté, and deep-fry them. Both the peel and seeds of melanzane are consumable, giving you the flexibility to include or remove them based on your preference.

About This 60 Seconds Series

Dive into the Italian language and cuisine world with our ’60 Seconds’ series. Each episode is a swift exploration into the heart of Italian culture, bringing you closer to Italy’s culinary and linguistic heritage. Join us for these quick, informative sessions and enrich your understanding of Italian traditions.