If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy summer’s bounty, this Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine slices of tender eggplant, kissed by the grill’s smoky heat, boldly infused with a garlicky herb sauce that sings with fresh parsley and rosemary. It’s simple to make, irresistibly aromatic, and perfect whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or just craving a delicious plant-based dish that everyone will love. Trust me, this recipe turns humble eggplant into something truly spectacular and utterly crave-worthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant Recipe plays a vital role, keeping the dish fresh, aromatic, and perfectly textured. The simplicity of the components lets the natural eggplant shine, while the herb and garlic blend lifts it to an exciting new level.
- 1 Eggplant: Choose a firm, medium-sized eggplant with smooth skin to ensure the best texture and moisture level when grilled.
- 2 tsp Sea Salt: Essential for drawing out excess moisture and intensifying the eggplant’s natural flavor.
- 2/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness while helping the herbs and garlic infuse beautifully into the eggplant.
- 4 cloves Garlic, crushed: Delivers a bold punch of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings a bright, fresh note and beautiful green color to the sauce.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary: Offers earthy, piney undertones that complement the smoky grill taste perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp Pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and depth to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp Sea Salt: Enhances the seasoning of the garlic herb sauce for balanced flavor.
How to Make Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Eggplant
Start by slicing the eggplant into half-inch thick pieces, either diagonally or straight across—whichever you prefer. Keeping the skin on is a smart move because it helps the eggplant hold its shape during grilling and also crisps up delightfully. Once sliced, sprinkle generously with sea salt on both sides. This step might seem small, but it’s crucial because the salt draws out moisture, which prevents the eggplant from becoming soggy and intensifies its flavor.
Step 2: Let the Eggplant Rest
After salting, arrange the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and set them aside for at least 15 minutes. This resting period allows the salt to work its magic. You’ll notice some liquid seeping out—perfect! Wipe each slice down afterward with a paper towel to remove the moisture and excess salt, prepping the slices for that ideal grill texture.
Step 3: Whip Up the Garlic Herb Sauce
The sauce is what truly transforms this dish from simple to sensational. In a medium bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, crushed garlic, fresh parsley, rosemary, ground pepper, and sea salt. This aromatic blend will coat the eggplant slices and infuse them with incredible flavor during grilling.
Step 4: Coat the Eggplant and Grill
Dip each eggplant slice into the garlic herb sauce, making sure both sides are generously coated. Then, place the slices onto a preheated grill set to medium heat. Grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side until you see those gorgeous golden grill marks and the eggplant has become tender. Keep an eye on them as you want a lovely char without burning.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once grilled to perfection, remove the eggplant slices from the grill and drizzle any remaining garlic herb sauce over them for an extra burst of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top finishes the dish with a fresh, vibrant look and taste.
How to Serve Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the classic choice to brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise. You could also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or a few flakes of red pepper for a hint of crunch and heat. A light squeeze of lemon juice over the top amplifies the freshness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe fits seamlessly alongside a whole range of sides. Try serving it with fluffy couscous, a zesty quinoa salad, or even grilled pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted tomatoes or a crisp green salad to round out the flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the grilled eggplant with slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato to create a grilled vegetable stack. Alternatively, chop up the grilled slices and toss them into a pasta salad or spread them on toasted bread with a dollop of hummus for a delicious appetizer. The versatile flavor profile of this Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant Recipe really invites your creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled eggplant keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it with a little of the leftover garlic herb sauce to keep the slices moist and flavorful. This makes for a quick snack or an effortless addition to meals throughout the week.
Freezing
While the texture of grilled eggplant can become a touch softer after freezing, you can freeze leftover grilled eggplant slices if needed. Place the cooled slices on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the eggplant slices in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture mushy. Drizzle with a little fresh garlic herb sauce or olive oil before serving to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other herbs besides parsley and rosemary?
Absolutely! While parsley and rosemary make a perfect combo, you can experiment with thyme, basil, or oregano to suit your taste. Each herb brings a unique twist that keeps the Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant Recipe exciting and adaptable.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! This recipe is fully vegan as it uses only plant-based ingredients. The olive oil and fresh herbs build a rich, satisfying flavor without any animal products, making it perfect for vegan and vegetarian diets.
What’s the best way to choose an eggplant for grilling?
Look for a firm, medium-sized eggplant with glossy, unblemished skin. Smaller eggplants tend to be less bitter and have fewer seeds, which makes for a nicer, creamier grilled texture.
Can I grill this eggplant recipe indoors?
If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stovetop works beautifully too. Just preheat it to medium heat and follow the same grilling times for each side to get that lovely char and flavor.
How can I make this recipe less oily?
You can reduce the olive oil slightly if desired, but keep in mind it’s important for moisture and flavor. Using a light brush of oil instead of a full coat on each slice can help cut back on calories without sacrificing taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant Recipe that feels like sunshine on a plate. It’s simple, fresh, and bursting with layers of flavor that come together so effortlessly. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish, appetizer, or part of a bigger meal, this recipe always impresses. Give it a go and bring a little smoky, garlicky joy to your next meal—you won’t regret it!
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Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled Garlic Herb Eggplant is a delightful summer side dish featuring smoky, charred eggplant slices coated in a flavorful garlic and herb sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare, vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for picnics or barbecues, delivering a caramelized, savory taste that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients
Eggplant Preparation
- 1 Eggplant
- 2 tsp Sea Salt
Garlic Herb Sauce
- 2/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Sea Salt
Instructions
- Slice the Eggplant: Cut the eggplant into 1/2 inch thick slices, either diagonal or crosswise. Leave the skin on to help retain the shape and develop a crispy crust while cooking.
- Salt the Slices: Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Generously sprinkle both sides with sea salt and let them sit for at least 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Preheat Grill and Pat Dry: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Use a paper towel or cloth to wipe off the excess salt and moisture from both sides of each eggplant slice.
- Prepare Garlic Herb Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, crushed garlic, chopped parsley, rosemary, pepper, and sea salt. Mix well to create the sauce.
- Coat Eggplant in Sauce: Dip each eggplant slice into the garlic herb sauce, carefully flipping to coat both sides thoroughly.
- Grill the Eggplant: Place the coated slices on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until golden and marked by grill lines, ensuring a smoky, caramelized flavor.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the eggplant from the grill, drizzle with any remaining garlic herb sauce, garnish with extra fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Salting the eggplant helps reduce bitterness and prevents sogginess.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the grill to get perfect char marks.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact.
- Keep the skin on for texture and ease of grilling.
- Can be served warm or at room temperature, great for outdoor meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
