Vegetarian Muffuletta

2 eggplants (about 1 lb. each), cut in 1/4-inch slices
1 tin chickpeas (19 ounces), rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon hot chili paste
1 10 inch round loaf Italian bread
1 sweet red pepper, roasted and peeled, cut into chunks
1 sweet yellow pepper, roasted and peeled, cut into chunks
1 bunch fresh arugula or watercress, trimmed
1/3 cup pesto sauce

Preheat barbecue or broiler and grill eggplant until browned on both sides. Reserve.

Puree chickpeas, lemon juice, sesame oil, cumin, garlic, salt, pepper and chili paste. Taste and adjust seasonings and/or thin with water if necessary.

Cut bread in half horizontally and remove some of insides (save for breadcrumbs or croutons). Spread bottom half of bread with chickpea puree and layer on eggplant slices with roasted peppers and arugula. Spread top half of bread with pesto and place firmly on sandwich. Wrap tightly. Cut into wedges to serve.

It is easier to serve if it is wrapped and refrigerated for at least one hour before slicing.

Servings: 8
Source: Simply HeartSmart Cooking by Bonnie Stern