The smoky aroma of grilled eggplant with herbs wafts through the air, enticing you to take that first delicious bite. Imagine the tender flesh of eggplant soaked in olive oil, kissed by the grill, and seasoned with fragrant herbs—it’s a culinary experience that dances on your taste buds. grilled shrimp tostadas.
As you savor this dish, memories flood back of summer barbecues spent with friends, laughter echoing as you gather around the grill. sticky garlic eggplant recipe Grilled eggplant isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and shared moments that are perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled eggplant with herbs is easy to prepare, making it a great addition to any meal
- Its rich flavor profile combines smoky notes with fresh herbs
- The vibrant colors enhance any plate, elevating your dining experience
- This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with meats, salads, or even on its own as a delightful vegetarian option
I still remember the first time I served grilled eggplant at a family gathering—everyone raved about it and went for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Eggplant: Choose firm, glossy eggplants without blemishes for the best grilling results. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and moisture.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil, thyme, or rosemary work beautifully; choose your favorites for a personalized touch.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth—always a winner in any herb-infused dish!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for the best taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare yourself for a flavorful journey with grilled eggplant!
Slice the Eggplant: Start by slicing the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This thickness ensures they grill evenly while keeping their shape.
Season Generously: Drizzle olive oil over the slices and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Massage into each slice so every bite bursts with flavor.
Prep Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F). A well-heated grill will give you those beautiful char marks we all love.
Grill Away!: Place the seasoned eggplant slices on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until they’re tender and have nice grill marks. Flip them gently using tongs to avoid splattering oil.
Add Fresh Herbs: In the last minute of grilling, sprinkle fresh herbs over each slice. caprese dip for BBQs The heat will release their aromatic oils, creating an irresistible scent that makes your mouth water.
Serve Hot: Remove from the grill and serve immediately while warm! You can drizzle more olive oil or balsamic reduction if you like a little extra zing.
Enjoy your grilled eggplant with herbs as part of a delicious spread or on its own—either way, it’s sure to impress! sausage and veggies skillet.
You Must Know
- Grilled eggplant with herbs is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures
- The smoky aroma and tender texture make it irresistible
- Pair it with your favorite dishes for a delightful experience that will impress family and friends alike
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, then slice the eggplant into thick rounds for even grilling. Brush with olive oil and season well before placing them on the grill.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavor profiles. A sprinkle of feta cheese or balsamic drizzle can elevate it further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled eggplant in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the grill or stovetop to maintain its texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect grilled eggplant, salt the slices beforehand to draw out moisture for better grilling
- Always preheat your grill for that essential smoky flavor, and don’t skip on the herbs; they bring everything together beautifully
I remember the first time I made grilled eggplant with herbs for my friends. Their faces lit up when they tasted it, and suddenly I felt like a culinary superstar! For more inspiration, check out this Perfect Grilled Lamb Chops recipe.
FAQ
How do I choose a good eggplant?
Look for firm, shiny skin without blemishes or soft spots, indicating freshness.
Can I use different herbs?
Absolutely! Basil, parsley, or even cilantro can add a delightful twist to your dish.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes! This grilled eggplant is naturally vegan and packed with flavor without any animal products.
Grilled Eggplant with Herbs
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled eggplant with herbs is a delightful dish that brings together smoky flavors and fresh aromas. This easy-to-make recipe features tender slices of eggplant marinated in olive oil and seasoned with a blend of fragrant herbs, making it perfect for summer barbecues or as a savory side dish. The vibrant colors and rich textures will elevate any meal while offering a healthy, vegetarian option that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (basil, thyme, or rosemary)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 375°F).
- Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant slices and season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic; massage the seasoning into each slice.
- Place the seasoned eggplants on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until tender and charred.
- In the last minute of grilling, sprinkle fresh herbs over the eggplant slices.
- Remove from grill and serve warm; add extra olive oil or balsamic reduction if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Vegetarian
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 medium grilled eggplant slice (50g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
