During the hottest months, eggplants arrive and join their solanaceous relatives to create colorful Mediterranean, Middle-Eastern, and Asian feasts. Those of you who are wary of the aubergine (as they are also known) need only taste a roasted slice or a creamy spoonful of baba ganoush to be won over. Eggplants grow in many shapes and shades. Try a slender one in your small garden or small plate, or go for a traditional club-shaped giant to feed a big table.