Name: Grilled Eggplant Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large eggplants; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 6 cloves garlic; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint; Salt and pepper to taste

Get ready to fall in love with eggplant all over again! This Grilled Eggplant recipe is a game-changer that’ll have you looking at this humble vegetable in a whole new light. It’s the perfect blend of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering umami bomb that’ll leave you craving more.
Versatile: Works great as a side dish or a main course for vegetarians. You can even use it as a base for other recipes!
Healthy: Eggplant is packed with nutrients and fiber, making this a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

Eggplants: The star of the show! Choose firm, glossy ones for the best texture.
Olive Oil: Helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle flavor.
Garlic: Fresh is best! It’s the heart of our flavor-packed sauce.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that balances the richness.
Soy Sauce: Brings umami and depth to the dish. Go for low sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way in adding that distinctive nutty flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat. Adjust to your spice preference.
Fresh Mint: Adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors.
Salt and Pepper: The basics that tie everything together.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Cheese Lover’s Dream: Sprinkle some crumbled feta or grated Parmesan over the top for a Mediterranean twist.
Herbal Infusion: Swap the mint for basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Nutty Crunch: Add some toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds for extra texture.
Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle with honey and increase the red pepper flakes for a delightful contrast.

How to Make Grilled Eggplant

Step 1: Prep the Grill and Eggplant

Fire up that grill! Get it nice and hot, and don’t forget to oil those grates. Slice your eggplants into 1-inch rounds, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Grill to Perfection

Slap those eggplant slices on the grill and cook until they’re beautifully charred and tender. You’ll know they’re done when they’re easily pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Whip Up the Sauce

While the eggplant is grilling, let’s make that amazing sauce. Smash the garlic into a paste (your kitchen will smell incredible!), then mix it with rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes.

Step 4: Dress and Serve

Once your eggplant is grilled to perfection, drizzle that flavor-packed sauce all over it. Sprinkle with fresh mint, and voila! You’re ready to dig in.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Steven: Cut those eggplant slices as evenly as possible. It’s the secret to getting them all perfectly cooked at the same time.
Garlic Goodness: Don’t skimp on the fresh garlic. It’s what gives this dish its wow factor.
Spice It Up: Feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even a squirt of Sriracha if you like it hot.
Grill Master: Always oil your grill grates. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

How to Serve

This grilled eggplant is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats, or make it the star of the show in a vegetarian feast. It’s fantastic alongside a fresh Greek salad or piled high on a bed of fluffy couscous. For a complete meal, pair it with some grilled chicken or fish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for 3-5 days. The flavors actually get better over time!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze grilled eggplant! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember, the texture might change a bit upon thawing.

Reheating

Warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If it seems a bit dry, drizzle with a little olive oil to bring it back to life.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of eggplant?
Absolutely! Japanese eggplants or even baby eggplants work great. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.

I don’t have a grill. Can I make this in the oven?
You bet! Roast the eggplant slices in a 425°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is there a substitute for sesame oil?
While sesame oil adds a unique flavor, you can use olive oil or even avocado oil if you’re in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
It already is! Just double-check that your soy sauce is vegan-friendly, and you’re good to go.

This Grilled Eggplant recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a regular in your cooking rotation. It’s the perfect way to elevate a humble vegetable into something truly spectacular. So fire up that grill, grab some eggplants, and get ready for a flavor adventure that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Stacy Corbo

Hi, I’m Stacy Corbo! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

Grilled Eggplant Recipe