Grilled eggplant, or melanzane grigliate, is a staple of Italian cuisine, transforming this humble vegetable into a smoky, tender delight. Its versatility shines through – from a simple antipasto served with crusty bread and balsamic glaze, to a key ingredient in pasta sauces and flavorful vegetarian mains. The slightly charred exterior gives way to a creamy, rich interior, a testament to the magic of grilling. This simple preparation elevates eggplant beyond its usual bland reputation, showcasing its unexpected depth of flavor.
This recipe focuses on achieving perfectly grilled eggplant slices, achieving that ideal balance between smoky char and soft, yielding flesh. Forget mushy eggplant – this method ensures a satisfying texture every time. Ready to experience the transformative power of fire on this versatile vegetable? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own delicious grilled eggplant.
Tools Needed
- Skillet
- Glass bowl
Ingredients
- Eggplant
- Chopped Parsley
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Salt
- Pepper
- Balsamic Vinegar (Modena)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 5-6 tablespoons
- Rocket Salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Eggplant
- Slice the eggplant into circles (or strips). Avoid slicing too thick to ensure faster cooking.
- Generously salt the eggplant slices and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Step 2. Make the Dressing
- Crush one garlic clove in a glass bowl.
- Add 5-6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and a generous amount of balsamic vinegar to the bowl with the crushed garlic. Stir to combine.
Step 3. Grill the Eggplant
- Grill the eggplant slices in a skillet (or on a barbecue) over medium-high heat, turning them to cook both sides until tender.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Dress the rocket salad with a small amount of the garlic-balsamic-oil mixture.
- Arrange the grilled eggplant slices over the dressed rocket salad.
- Drizzle the remaining garlic-balsamic-oil mixture over the assembled eggplant and rocket salad.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and pepper (optional).
Read more: Classic Beef Spiedini: Italian-Style Kebabs Recipe
Tips
- Use high-quality eggplant for the best flavor. Buy from a local market!
- If using thicker eggplant slices, increase cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
- Charcoal grilling adds extra flavor, but a skillet works great too!
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of eggplant?
Yes! While Italian eggplants are ideal, globe eggplants work well too. Just make sure they're firm and not overly ripe.
2. How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming too oily?
Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture before grilling. This significantly reduces oil absorption.
3. What can I serve grilled eggplant with?
It's delicious as an antipasto with crusty bread and balsamic glaze. You can also add it to salads, pasta dishes, or pizzas.
This simple grilled eggplant recipe is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer. Enjoy the smoky sweetness and satisfying texture of perfectly grilled eggplant, transforming a humble vegetable into a star of the plate. Buon appetito!