A Beginner’s Guide to Grilling Eggplant

Prepping the Eggplant for Grilling

Before you start grilling eggplant, it is important to prepare it properly. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Choose a fresh and firm eggplant with smooth and shiny skin. Avoid eggplants that have soft spots or wrinkles.

2. Rinse the eggplant under running water and pat it dry with a paper towel.

3. Cut off the stem and the bottom of the eggplant. Then, slice it into 1/2-inch-thick rounds or lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices.

4. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes. This will help to remove the bitterness and excess moisture from the eggplant.

5. Rinse the eggplant slices with water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

6. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil or any other cooking oil. This will help to prevent them from sticking to the grill.

Now that your eggplant is prepped, you’re ready to move on to marinating and seasoning it before grilling.

The Best Marinades and Seasonings for Eggplant

Marinating and seasoning eggplant can add delicious flavor and complexity to your grilled dish. Here are some ideas to try:

1. Lemon and Herb Marinade: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano), salt, and black pepper. Coat the eggplant slices with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

2. Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey or brown sugar. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and reduces by half. Brush the eggplant slices with the glaze before grilling.

3. Garlic and Chili Powder Seasoning: Mix together minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning onto both sides of the eggplant slices before grilling.

4. Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil Marinade: Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and brown sugar. Coat the eggplant slices with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

5. Pesto: Spread pesto onto both sides of the eggplant slices before grilling. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto.

Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combinations for grilled eggplant.

Grilling Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Eggplant

Grilling eggplant requires a bit of technique to ensure it is cooked through without becoming mushy or burnt. Here are some tips to follow:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).

2. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the eggplant from sticking.

3. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on the grill. Don’t overcrowd the grill or the eggplant may steam instead of grill.

4. Grill the eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have grill marks. Avoid flipping the eggplant slices too frequently, as this can cause them to fall apart.

5. Use tongs to carefully remove the grilled eggplant from the grill.

6. If you are making a recipe that requires additional cooking (such as stuffed eggplant or eggplant Parmesan), you can remove the eggplant from the grill once it has grill marks and is partially cooked. Finish cooking the eggplant in the oven or on the stovetop.

By following these grilling techniques, you can ensure that your eggplant is cooked perfectly every time.

Delicious Recipes to Try with Grilled Eggplant

Grilled eggplant is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some recipe ideas to try:

1. Grilled Eggplant Salad: Grill eggplant slices and combine them with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and a lemon and herb dressing.

2. Grilled Eggplant Sandwich: Layer grilled eggplant slices, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and arugula on a crusty baguette.

3. Grilled Eggplant Pizza: Grill eggplant slices and use them as a pizza topping along with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.

4. Grilled Eggplant Roll-Ups: Grill eggplant slices and fill them with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs. Roll up the eggplant slices and bake them in the oven until heated through.

5. Grilled Eggplant with Chimichurri Sauce: Grill eggplant slices and serve them with a zesty chimichurri sauce made with parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Get creative with your grilled eggplant and incorporate it into your favorite dishes for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Why Grilled Eggplant is a Must-Try

Grilled eggplant is not only delicious, but it also has many health benefits. Here are some reasons why you should give it a try:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C and K.

2. Heart-Healthy: Eggplant contains compounds called anthocyanins, which have been shown to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

3. Antioxidant-Packed: Eggplant is a great source of antioxidants, which help to protect the body against cellular damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

4. Versatile: Grilled eggplant can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches to pizzas, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.

5. Delicious: Grilling eggplant brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that is irresistible.

With so many health benefits and delicious flavor, grilled eggplant is definitely worth trying. Add it to your next barbecue or incorporate it into your favorite recipes for a nutritious and tasty meal.