Savory Grilled Eggplant with Garlic Sauce Recipe Delight

Grilled eggplant with garlic sauce is a culinary delight that tantalizes your taste buds with its smoky flavors and creamy textures. Imagine biting into perfectly charred slices of eggplant, their rich essence harmonizing with a garlicky drizzle that dances on your palate.

This dish brings back fond memories of summer barbecues in my backyard, where friends gather, laughter fills the air, and delicious aromas swirl around like an irresistible hug. Picture it: the sun setting, friends eagerly awaiting this vibrant dish, and the anticipation of those first bites filled with flavor.

I once wowed my family at a summer cookout with this recipe; they couldn’t believe how flavorful eggplant could be!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Eggplant: Choose firm, glossy eggplants without blemishes; these are the key to that perfect grilled texture.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves are essential; they add depth and aroma to the sauce that complements the eggplant beautifully.

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and helps achieve that lovely char on the eggplant.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and balances out richness; bottled juice just won’t cut it!

• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning elevates the flavors; use kosher salt for texture and fresh pepper for a kick.

For the Sauce:

• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; don’t skip this herb if you want vibrant flavor!

• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without overwhelming the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Eggplant: Start by slicing your eggplant into ½ inch thick rounds. Lay them out on paper towels and sprinkle both sides generously with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Create the Garlic Sauce: While waiting, mix minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Set aside to let those flavors mingle while you grill.

Preheat Your Grill: Get your grill nice and hot—around 400°F (200°C) is ideal. If you’re using charcoal, wait until the coals turn white-hot for that perfect char.

Grill the Eggplant Slices: Rinse off any salt from your eggplant slices under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil before placing them on the grill grates.

Cook Until Perfectly Charred: Grill each slice for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown with lovely grill marks. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender but not mushy.

Serve It Up!: Arrange your grilled eggplant on a platter and drizzle generously with that luscious garlic sauce you prepared earlier. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

This delightful grilled eggplant with garlic sauce will not only satisfy cravings but also leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy each bite as you savor those smoky flavors mingling beautifully with zesty garlic goodness!

You Must Know

• Grilled eggplant with garlic sauce is not just delicious; it’s a fantastic way to impress guests
• Its smoky flavor combined with creamy garlic sauce creates a dish that feels gourmet yet simple to make
• The vibrant colors and aroma will make your kitchen irresistible

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing the eggplant and salting it to remove bitterness. While it rests, prepare your garlic sauce. Grill the eggplant until tender and slightly charred for perfect smokiness.



Add Your Touch

Consider swapping out garlic for roasted red peppers in your sauce for a twist. Experiment with herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover grilled eggplant in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to maintain its texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• For perfectly grilled eggplant, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat
• Avoid overcrowding the grill to allow even cooking
• Consider brushing the eggplant slices with olive oil for extra flavor and moisture before grilling

A friend once told me this dish reminded him of summer barbecues at his grandma’s house, filled with laughter and amazing food. That moment inspired me to recreate the magic of those gatherings.



FAQ

Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplant?

Absolutely! Zucchini or bell peppers also work wonderfully when grilled.

How do I know when the eggplant is done?

It should be soft and have beautiful grill marks, indicating it’s ready to enjoy.

What’s the best way to serve grilled eggplant?

Serve it warm with a drizzle of garlic sauce, fresh herbs, and crusty bread on the side.

Print

Grilled Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
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• Author: Maria Del
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4
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Description
Grilled eggplant with garlic sauce is a flavorful summer dish that combines smoky grilled eggplant slices with a zesty garlic sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Each bite bursts with the rich essence of eggplant enhanced by a creamy garlic drizzle, making it an irresistible centerpiece on any table.
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Ingredients
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• 2 medium eggplants (about 1 lb each)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
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Instructions
1. Slice the eggplants into ½ inch thick rounds and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. In a bowl, mix minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F or 200°C).
4. Rinse the salted eggplant under cold water and pat dry. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
5. Grill the eggplant slices for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and tender.
6. Arrange grilled eggplant on a platter and drizzle generously with garlic sauce.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg