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Grilled eggplant easy Mediterranean style

grilled eggplant
grilled eggplant

grilled eggplant

Grilled eggplant brings flavor and health to your plate. Try this quick, delicious recipe with simple ingredients, perfect for any meal.
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 110

Ingredients
  

  • 2 unit eggplant medium, sliced into rounds
  • 2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar optional
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated.
  3. Season the slices generously with sea salt and black pepper on both sides.
  4. Place the eggplant slices on the hot grill. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side, until you see defined grill marks and the eggplant becomes tender.
  5. Transfer to a serving platter while hot. If desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Eggplant is one of those wonderfully versatile vegetables that can instantly elevate a meal, and grilling eggplant brings out its deep, smoky flavors while keeping the texture juicy and tender. This nutritious side dish is a crowd-pleaser at both casual weeknight dinners and festive summer gatherings.
Want to achieve perfectly grilled eggplant every time? Here are some practical tips:
  • Slice evenly: Make sure all your eggplant rounds are the same thickness—preferably about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook uniformly and prevents thinner slices from burning.
  • Salt before grilling: If you have a bit more time, try sprinkling your eggplant slices with salt and letting them sit for 10–15 minutes. This draws out bitterness and excess moisture. Blot with a paper towel before brushing with oil.
Choosing the right oil: A flavorful extra-virgin olive oil complements the eggplant’s rich taste. You can also experiment with infused oils (like garlic or basil-infused) for added aroma.
For extra flavor and perfect texture: Grill over medium-high heat without moving the slices too soon. You’ll get those attractive grill marks and keep the eggplant from sticking.

Recipe Variations & Serving Ideas

Pair grilled eggplant with fresh tomato salad, or serve it as a warm base for crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts. For a hearty vegetarian main, layer grilled slices with mozzarella, basil, and roasted red peppers for a stacked eggplant tower.
Feel free to replace parsley with fresh mint or basil for a different herbal touch. Drizzle with pesto or lemon-tahini sauce if you want extra zest. Grilled eggplant also works beautifully in sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for whole-grain salads.
With these simple strategies, your grilled eggplant will shine as the star of any meal—whether as a tasty side, a light main, or a creative addition to your favorite dishes!
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