Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with this mouthwatering Grilled Eggplant with Salsa recipe! Imagine tender, smoky eggplant slices kissed by the grill's flames and topped with vibrant, zesty salsa that bursts with fresh flavors. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is not just a recipe; it's a journey that will transport your senses to sun-drenched coastal kitchens, proving that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and exciting.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh salsa
Instructions
- Wash the eggplants thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices, creating uniform pieces for even grilling.
- Place the eggplant slices on a large baking sheet and brush both sides generously with olive oil, ensuring complete coverage.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over each eggplant slice, seasoning to enhance natural flavors.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F, cleaning and oiling the grates to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the oiled eggplant slices directly on the hot grill grates, arranging them perpendicular to the grate lines for perfect grill marks.
- Grill the eggplant slices for 4-5 minutes on each side, rotating 45 degrees halfway through to create attractive crosshatch grill marks.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the eggplant is tender and has developed a golden-brown color with slight charring.
- Remove grilled eggplant slices from the heat and transfer to a serving platter.
- Top the warm grilled eggplant with fresh salsa, distributing it evenly across the slices.
- Serve immediately while the eggplant is still warm, garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose firm, glossy eggplants without blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't skip brushing with olive oil - it helps prevent sticking and adds rich flavor.
- Ensure your grill is properly preheated and cleaned to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the eggplant slices in herbs or garlic-infused oil before grilling.
- If you don't have a grill, this recipe works equally well on a grill pan or under the broiler.
- Let the eggplant rest for a minute after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Use fresh, homemade salsa for the most vibrant and authentic taste experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 165kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
