Fabulous Grilled Eggplant with Herbs: A Delicious Mediterranean Side Dish

Grilled eggplant with herbs is the perfect dish to bring the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. The tender, smoky eggplant, infused with fragrant herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme, offers a delicious and healthy side dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling for a summer BBQ or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this simple yet flavorful recipe combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with the bold, aromatic flavors of Mediterranean herbs. Ready to fire up the grill and indulge in a delightful, savory treat?

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History or Background of Grilled Eggplant with Herbs

Eggplant, a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, has been used for centuries in various dishes, from savory stews to smoky grilled preparations. Known for its rich, slightly bitter flavor, eggplant has become a beloved vegetable across many cultures. Grilling it enhances its natural smokiness, making it the perfect base for vibrant herbs like basil, thyme, and parsley. This simple method of grilling with fresh herbs has long been a favorite in Mediterranean cooking, offering a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy eggplant’s unique texture and taste. Whether in the Middle East, Italy, or Greece, grilled eggplant with herbs has become a staple side dish, often paired with meats, cheeses, or served on its own as a light, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Eggplant with Herbs

Grilled eggplant with herbs offers a multitude of benefits that make it a perfect addition to any meal:

1. Quick & Easy: This dish is simple to prepare, with just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute side at a BBQ.
2. Healthy: Low in calories but high in fiber, grilled eggplant is a nutritious option for those looking to eat healthy without compromising on flavor.
3. Flavorful: The combination of smoky grilled eggplant and fresh, aromatic herbs creates a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s both light and savory.
4. Versatile: Whether served as a side dish, topping for salads, or part of a Mediterranean platter, this dish pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegan dishes.
5. Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly: With no animal products, this recipe is a great choice for anyone following a plant-based diet.

Ingredients for Grilled Eggplant with Herbs

For this flavorful grilled eggplant with herbs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants (about 1 pound)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s packed with flavor. You can easily find these ingredients at your local grocery store, and the fresh herbs make a big difference in enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

How to Make Grilled Eggplant with Herbs

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly grilled eggplant with herbs:

1. Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). This ensures the eggplant gets that perfect smoky char.
2. Prepare the Eggplants: Slice the eggplants into thick rounds, about half an inch thick. The thicker slices hold up better on the grill and absorb the flavors more evenly.
3. Make the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir the ingredients until the herbs are evenly distributed in the oil.
4. Brush the Eggplant: Use a brush to generously apply the herb mixture to both sides of each eggplant slice. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
5. Grill the Eggplant: Place the eggplant slices on the preheated grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the eggplant is tender and has beautiful grill marks. You want the eggplant to be soft but still hold its shape.
6. Serve: Once the eggplant is grilled, transfer it to a platter. Drizzle with extra olive oil and garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Grilled Eggplant with Herbs

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your grilled eggplant with herbs turns out perfectly:

1. Salt Before Grilling: If you find eggplants too bitter, sprinkle salt on the slices before grilling. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, then blot with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps reduce bitterness and results in a firmer texture.
2. Use a Grill Basket: To prevent the eggplant slices from slipping through the grill grates, consider using a grill basket. This will also help with even grilling.
3. Experiment with Different Herbs: While basil, thyme, and parsley are a classic choice, feel free to try rosemary, oregano, or mint for a unique twist on this Mediterranean dish.

Serving Ideas for Grilled Eggplant with Herbs

Grilled eggplant with herbs is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

1. As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or Mediterranean-inspired salads for a healthy and flavorful side. It also complements pasta dishes beautifully.
2. On a Salad: Toss grilled eggplant slices with arugula, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a fresh and light salad. Add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an extra punch of flavor.
3. As a Sandwich or Wrap Filling: Layer the grilled eggplant with hummus, roasted vegetables, and some greens for a tasty vegetarian wrap or sandwich.
4. With a Dipping Sauce: Serve the grilled eggplant with a tangy yogurt or tzatziki sauce on the side for extra flavor.

Storage Advice for Grilled Eggplant with Herbs

Grilled eggplant with herbs is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Refrigeration: Allow the grilled eggplant to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or wraps.
• Freezing: While it’s not ideal to freeze grilled eggplant, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1-2 months if necessary. Keep in mind that freezing may change its texture slightly upon thawing.

Find out more: Amazing Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe: Moist, Flavorful, and Irresistible!

FAQs about Grilled Eggplant with Herbs

1. What herbs go well with eggplant?

Eggplant pairs beautifully with a variety of herbs, including basil, parsley, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and mint. Fresh basil and thyme, in particular, are often used in Mediterranean dishes, complementing the eggplant’s earthy flavor.

2. How do you season eggplant for grilling?

To season eggplant for grilling, use a mix of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, along with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme. This combination adds flavor and helps the eggplant stay moist while grilling.

3. How does Gordon Ramsay cook eggplant?

Gordon Ramsay often roasts or grills eggplant to bring out its natural sweetness. He recommends seasoning it with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and grilling it until it’s tender and slightly charred for added depth of flavor.

4. What seasonings taste good on eggplant?

Eggplant has a mild, slightly earthy flavor, which makes it versatile when it comes to seasonings. Here are some seasonings that pair wonderfully with eggplant:

1. Garlic: Minced or roasted garlic adds a savory, aromatic kick.
2. Basil: Fresh basil complements the sweetness and earthiness of eggplant.
3. Oregano: This herb is perfect for Mediterranean dishes and adds a bit of warmth.
4. Thyme: A subtle, earthy herb that enhances the flavor of grilled or roasted eggplant.
5. Rosemary: Offers a woody, fragrant flavor that works well when grilling or roasting eggplant.
6. Cumin: Adds a warm, slightly nutty flavor, ideal for Middle Eastern or Indian-style eggplant dishes.
7. Smoked Paprika: Imparts a smoky, slightly sweet flavor, great for grilled eggplant.
8. Chili Flakes or Paprika: Adds heat and depth to the dish.
9. Lemon Zest or Juice: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh, tangy note.
10. Coriander: The citrusy and slightly sweet flavor of coriander pairs well with eggplant, especially in curries and stews.

Feel free to mix and match these seasonings to create your perfect eggplant dish!

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Conclusion

Grilled eggplant with herbs is a simple yet flavorful dish that embodies the best of Mediterranean cuisine. With its smoky, tender texture and the freshness of aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether as a side, salad, or standalone meal, this dish is bound to impress. Try it out today, and don’t forget to experiment with different herb combinations to suit your taste!

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