Transform ordinary eggplant into a flavorful and satisfying dish with this Garlic & Herb Grilled Eggplant recipe. The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic infuses the eggplant with a robust flavor that’s perfect for summer grilling. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and versatile, making it a great side dish or a hearty addition to any meal. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors or simply looking to try something new on the grill, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped rosemary (or 1 teaspoon of its dried form)
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped thyme (or 1 teaspoon of its dried form)1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplant: Start by washing the eggplants and slicing them into ½-inch thick rounds. You can leave the skin on for added texture or peel it if you prefer a smoother bite.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Eggplant: Place the eggplant slices in a large dish or baking sheet. Brush both sides of each slice generously with the garlic and herb marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let the eggplant marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate.
- Heat the Grill: Get your grill going by setting it to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are well-cleaned and brushed with a light coat of oil to avoid any sticking.
- Grill the Eggplant: Place the marinated eggplant slices on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the eggplant is tender and has nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as the eggplant can become mushy.
- Serve: Once the eggplant is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, if desired, and serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.
Conclusion:
Garlic & Herb Grilled Eggplant is a delightful dish that brings out the best in this versatile vegetable. The blend of garlic, rosemary, and thyme, combined with the fresh zing of lemon, creates a perfectly balanced flavor that’s both savory and refreshing. Whether served as a side dish, a vegetarian main course, or part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal, this grilled eggplant is sure to be a hit. It’s an easy, healthy option that’s perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, adding a deliciously smoky and aromatic touch to any menu.