Ode to an Eggplant

Oh Eggplant, how I do love you

So nutritious, with lots of vitamins

So tasty, with a complex and smoky flavor

So easy to prepare for a busy weeknight

~

If you have a few blemishes, I don't care

As long as your skin is firm and without puncture

. . .that is, until I prick you all over with my fork

It's ok, it's good for you

~

A very hot oven, 450

And about 50 minutes

A few rotations as you go

We want you to cook evenly through

And on the counter to cool a bit

Sometimes I like your skin, more often I don't

Once you are cool enough to touch, your skin is so easy to remove

Until you are completely naked

Sliced up and stored in the fridge

And ready for whatever I like

Oh Eggplant, how I do love you!

~::~