Garlic Parmesan Grilled Eggplant

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Eggplant is a savory, cheesy side dish or appetizer that showcases the natural flavor of eggplant with a crispy, caramelized exterior. Grilled to perfection and topped with a flavorful blend of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for summer cookouts or healthy weeknight dinners.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

eggplantsolive oilgarlic clovesParmesan cheesefresh parsleyItalian seasoningkosher saltblack pepper

directions

Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds and lightly salt them. Let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with the garlic oil mixture.

Place the eggplant slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the eggplant is tender.

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each slice during the last minute of grilling.

Remove from grill and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesGrilling time: 6-8 minutesTotal time: 26-28 minutes

Variations

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the oil mixture for a bit of heat.

Use mozzarella or feta cheese for a different cheesy twist.

Top with chopped tomatoes and basil for a bruschetta-style finish.

Serve over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover grilled eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through.Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan on the stovetop works well for this recipe.

Do I need to peel the eggplant?

No, the skin becomes tender when grilled and adds to the texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the eggplant and garlic oil in advance, but it’s best grilled fresh.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan melts and tastes better.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

Use a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

Why salt the eggplant first?

Salting draws out bitterness and helps with texture during grilling.

Can I bake this instead?

Yes, roast in a 425°F oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How thick should I slice the eggplant?

1/2-inch thick slices are ideal for grilling and holding shape.

Can I freeze grilled eggplant?

It’s not recommended, as the texture becomes mushy when thawed.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Eggplant is a mouthwatering way to enjoy eggplant with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. With its garlicky aroma, cheesy topping, and smoky char, it’s a surefire hit at any meal. Quick to prepare and customizable, it’s a versatile dish you’ll come back to all summer long.

Print