Grilled Aubergine with Garlic and Herbs
Enjoy Grilled Aubergine with Garlic and Herbs, a healthy, flavorful dinner featuring tender eggplant infused with aromatic herbs and garlic. This simple, vibrant dish is perfect for weeknights, offering a nutritious, Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilled Aubergine with Garlic and Herbs is a wholesome, delicious dish that transforms simple eggplant into a star of the dinner table. Its smoky, tender texture paired with a garlicky, herb-infused marinade makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for healthy eaters, this low-calorie, veggie-packed recipe is quick to prepare and ideal for summer grilling or cozy indoor meals. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep or entertaining, with endless customization options to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re a veggie lover or just seeking a nutritious dinner, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Salt the Aubergine: Sprinkle sliced eggplant with salt and let it sit for 20 minutes to remove bitterness and excess moisture.
- Preheat the Grill: Ensure the grill or grill pan is hot for perfect char marks and smoky flavor.
- Don’t Overoil: Brush aubergine lightly with oil to avoid sogginess; too much oil makes it greasy.
- Flip Carefully: Use tongs to turn slices gently, preserving their shape during grilling.
- Check Tenderness: Grill until soft and slightly caramelized, but not mushy, for the best texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Let aubergine rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling to absorb flavors fully.
Grilled Aubergine with Garlic and Herbs
Grilled Aubergine with Garlic and Herbs, a healthy, flavorful dinner perfect for nutritious, Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 medium aubergines (eggplants), sliced into 陆-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Optional garnish: extra fresh herbs, lemon zest
Instructions
- Prep the Aubergine: Slice eggplants into ½-inch rounds and sprinkle both sides with salt; let sit for 20 minutes to reduce bitterness.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse slices under cold water to remove salt, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the Slices: Lightly brush both sides of aubergine slices with the marinade for flavor-packed grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400°F) for perfect char marks.
- Grill the Aubergine: Place slices on the grill; cook for 4-5 minutes per side until tender and golden.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure slices are soft with grill marks but not mushy; adjust cooking time if needed.
- Add a Glaze (Optional): Brush with balsamic vinegar in the last minute for a tangy, caramelized finish.
- Rest and Garnish: Let aubergine rest for 2-3 minutes, then sprinkle with extra herbs and lemon zest.
- Serve with Joy: Plate this vibrant, healthy dish as a main or side, and enjoy the Mediterranean vibes!
Notes
- Salting aubergine is key to removing bitterness, especially for larger or older eggplants.
- For indoor cooking, use a grill pan or oven to achieve similar results.
- Serve cold as part of a salad or warm with grilled meats or grains.
- Leftovers are great in sandwiches, wraps, or as a pizza topping.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 201Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 9gSodium 163mgCarbohydrates 27gFiber 8gSugar 10gProtein 3g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Aubergine (Eggplant): Choose firm, glossy eggplants; smaller ones are less bitter and more tender.
- Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil adds rich flavor; use sparingly for a lighter dish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides bold, aromatic depth; avoid pre-minced for best results.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil add freshness; thyme or rosemary can enhance earthiness.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors; bottled juice is less vibrant.
- Salt: Kosher or sea salt enhances flavor; use after salting to control bitterness.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle kick; adjust to taste.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Optional for a tangy, slightly sweet glaze; use high-quality for better flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetable Swap: Replace aubergine with zucchini, portobello mushrooms, or bell peppers for variety.
- Herb Alternatives: Use fresh oregano, cilantro, or dill instead of parsley and basil for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil for a spicy twist.
- Vegan Cheese: Sprinkle with vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free topping.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, but ensure balsamic vinegar is certified gluten-free if used.
- Low-Oil Option: Use a cooking spray or broth instead of olive oil for a lighter dish.
- Grill-Free: Roast in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes if a grill isn’t available.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently or serve cold.
- Freezer: Freeze grilled slices in a single layer for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven or skillet to maintain texture; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
- Meal Prep: Store with marinade in containers for easy salads, wraps, or side dishes.
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