Grilled Eggplant Recipe

Grilled eggplant is a delicious and versatile side dish or main course, known for its smoky flavor and tender texture. Perfect for summer barbecues or healthy weeknight dinners, it pairs well with various seasonings, sauces, and toppings. This recipe highlights the natural richness of eggplant while keeping things simple and flavorful.

ingredients

Grilled Eggplant Recipe 10 Grilled eggplant is a delicious and versatile side dish or main course, known for its smoky flavor and tender texture. Perfect for summer barbecues or healthy weeknight dinners, it pairs well with various seasonings, sauces, and toppings. This recipe highlights the natural richness of eggplant while keeping things simple and flavorful.

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

eggplants (medium-sized)olive oilsaltblack peppergarlic powder(optional) smoked paprikafresh lemon juicechopped parsley or basil (for garnish)

directions

Slice the eggplants into ½-inch thick rounds or lengthwise strips.

Sprinkle both sides with salt and let them sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out bitterness. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using.

Place eggplant slices on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and grill marks appear.

Remove from grill and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.

Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.

Servings and timing

Grilled Eggplant Recipe
Grilled Eggplant Recipe 11 Grilled eggplant is a delicious and versatile side dish or main course, known for its smoky flavor and tender texture. Perfect for summer barbecues or healthy weeknight dinners, it pairs well with various seasonings, sauces, and toppings. This recipe highlights the natural richness of eggplant while keeping things simple and flavorful.

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesSalting time: 20-30 minutesGrilling time: 10 minutesTotal time: 40-50 minutes

Variations

Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for added richness.

Serve with a drizzle of tahini sauce or balsamic glaze.

Use Italian herbs like oregano and thyme for a Mediterranean twist.

Stack grilled eggplant with tomatoes and mozzarella for a grilled eggplant caprese.

storage/reheating

Store grilled eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 30-60 seconds.For best texture, avoid freezing as eggplant can become mushy.

FAQs

Do I have to peel the eggplant?

No, the skin becomes tender when grilled and helps hold the slices together.

Why salt the eggplant before grilling?

Salting draws out excess moisture and reduces bitterness, resulting in better texture and flavor.

Can I use a grill pan?

Yes, a grill pan works great for indoor cooking with similar charred results.

How do I prevent eggplant from sticking to the grill?

Brushing with enough olive oil and preheating the grill helps prevent sticking.

What goes well with grilled eggplant?

It pairs well with grilled meats, couscous, rice, quinoa, or a side salad.

Can I marinate the eggplant?

Absolutely, marinate in olive oil, herbs, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before grilling.

What kind of eggplant is best?

Globe or Italian eggplants work well due to their size and flesh texture.

Conclusion

Grilled eggplant is a flavorful, healthy, and easy dish that enhances any meal with its smoky taste and tender bite. Whether enjoyed plain, dressed up with toppings, or layered into a hearty recipe, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

Print
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Grilled Eggplant Recipe

Grilled Eggplant Recipe

  • Author: slsrecipes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A flavorful, healthy grilled eggplant dish perfect as a side or vegetarian main, featuring smoky char, garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil.


Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants (about 1½ lb total), sliced ¼‑inch thick
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional garnish)


Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium‑high heat.
  2. Brush both sides of eggplant slices with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, mix remaining olive oil, minced garlic, and thyme.
  4. Place eggplant on grill; cook 4–5 minutes per side, until tender and charred.
  5. During last minute of grilling, brush each slice with garlic‑herb oil.
  6. Remove from heat and transfer to serving platter.
  7. Drizzle with lemon juice (if using) and sprinkle with parsley.
  8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate eggplant slices for 30 minutes before grilling.
  • Brush with more garlic‑herb oil while resting, if desired.
  • Can also be finished under broiler if no grill is available.