Description
Grilled eggplant is a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a healthy snack. The smokiness from the grill combined with the tender texture of the eggplant makes it a go-to in any meal plan. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is both healthy and delicious, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of cuisines.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 eggplants
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat, ideally at 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit. This will give your eggplant the perfect char while keeping the inside tender. - Slice the Eggplant
Cut the eggplant into 1-inch elongated disks by slicing at an angle. Cutting at an angle increases the surface area for seasoning and gives the dish a more aesthetic appearance. - Prepare the Eggplant
Pat each slice of eggplant dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place the slices onto a baking sheet for easy preparation. - Brush with Olive Oil
Use a brush to evenly coat both sides of each eggplant slice with olive oil. This helps in even cooking and prevents sticking to the grill. - Season the Eggplant
In a small bowl, mix the Kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this seasoning blend generously over both sides of each eggplant slice to enhance flavor. - Grill the Eggplant
Place the seasoned slices onto the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the slices are tender with visible grill marks. - Cool and Garnish
Remove the eggplant slices from the grill and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness before serving.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, consider using a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill.
- Avoid salting the eggplant too early, as it can draw out excess moisture and make the slices too soft for grilling.
- You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice before serving for a tangy twist.
- Grilled eggplant is a versatile dish and pairs well with tzatziki, hummus, or even in a salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg