Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs

Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs is a delightful dish that elevates the humble eggplant into a star on your table. This recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled eggplant with the creamy richness of feta and vibrant herbs, making it perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to elegant dinner parties. Whether you’re a devoted eggplant lover or someone who typically avoids it, this dish will change your mind!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Unique: The combination of grilled eggplant, feta, and herbs creates a taste sensation that’s both fresh and satisfying.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish, a salad topping, or even as part of a vegetarian main course.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this dish fits well into many diets without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Be it a casual gathering or a festive celebration, Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs will impress your guests!

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs smoothly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the final outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Baking sheet
• Food processor
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Salad spinner (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A grill gives the eggplant that signature charred flavor while allowing for even cooking.
• Food Processor: This tool makes creating the garlic-cumin vinaigrette quick and easy by blending all ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Eggplant

• 2 large eggplants, cut in uniform slices 3/4 inch thick
• 2 tsp. salt, for salting eggplant (see notes)
• 2 T olive oil, for brushing on eggplant

For the Herb Mixture

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta (or more)
• 1 tsp. garlic puree or finely minced garlic
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 3 T fresh lemon juice
• 2 T red onion, finely minced
• 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• generous pinch Aleppo Pepper (or use cayenne pepper)
• 1 tsp. Spike Seasoning (optional)
• 6 T extra-virgin olive oil

How to Make Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. Cut both ends off the eggplants and slice them into pieces about 3/4 inches thick.
2. If salting, lay sliced eggplants on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Allow to sit for about 20 minutes until beads of water appear.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

1. After salting one side, turn over the slices and sprinkle salt on the other side; let sit an additional 20 minutes.
2. Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

1. In a food processor fitted with a steel blade, combine garlic, salt, lemon juice, and red onion. Pulse until well mixed.
2. Let sit for 10 minutes before transferring to a bowl; stir in cumin, Aleppo Pepper or cayenne, Spike Seasoning (if using), then whisk in olive oil.

Step 4: Grill the Eggplant

1. Wipe off excess water from salted eggplants using dry paper towels; place them on a baking sheet.
2. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil.
3. Lay eggplant slices on the grill; cook 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks form.

Step 5: Finish Your Dish

1. Once grilled to your liking, arrange the eggplants on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle generously with the garlic-cumin vinaigrette and sprinkle crumbled feta along with fresh herbs before serving.

This Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs recipe is sure to impress everyone at your next meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs

Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a main course or a side dish, it pairs well with many accompaniments.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the grilled eggplant slices on their own, drizzled with extra olive oil and topped with fresh herbs for a simple yet flavorful meal.

In a Salad

• Chop the grilled eggplant into bite-sized pieces and mix with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

On a Sandwich

• Layer grilled eggplant, feta, and herbs between crusty bread for a delicious sandwich. Add roasted peppers or hummus for extra flavor.

With Pasta

• Toss the grilled eggplant into cooked pasta along with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for an easy and satisfying pasta dish.

As an Appetizer

• Arrange slices of grilled eggplant on a platter and serve with toothpicks alongside your favorite dipping sauces for an inviting appetizer.

How to Perfect Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs

Perfecting your grilled eggplant is easy with these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Salt the Eggplant: Salting helps remove excess moisture, preventing sogginess while intensifying the flavor.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use high-quality feta cheese and fresh herbs for vibrant taste. Their freshness makes a noticeable difference.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the eggplant on it. This creates those beautiful grill marks and adds smoky flavor.
• Watch Your Cooking Time: Grill the eggplant until tender but still holding its shape. Overcooking can lead to mushiness.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices or add new ingredients like olives or sun-dried tomatoes to suit your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon complements the richness of the eggplant.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned with olive oil make for a colorful side that enhances flavors.
3. Hummus Platter: Serve a variety of hummus flavors alongside pita bread for dipping to balance the meal.
4. Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs can be a delightful base to absorb juices from the grilled eggplant.
5. Greek Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip made from non-dairy yogurt paired with veggies offers a cooling contrast to the warm grill flavors.
6. Rice Pilaf: Aromatic rice pilaf cooked with herbs provides another layer of texture and taste that pairs perfectly with grilled dishes.
7. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad mixed with diced vegetables brings heartiness without overshadowing the main dish.
8. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon makes for an elegant side that enhances presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs, it’s easy to make common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the salting process: Not salting the eggplant can lead to a bitter taste. Always salt the slices to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
• Overcooking the eggplant: Cooking eggplant too long can make it mushy. Grill until tender but still firm, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Using low-quality olive oil: A good quality olive oil enhances flavor. Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste in your vinaigrette.
• Not letting the vinaigrette sit: Skipping the resting time for your vinaigrette means missing out on deeper flavors. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish significantly. Always use fresh mint and cilantro instead of dried for maximum flavor.
• Neglecting grill preheating: Putting eggplant on a cold grill leads to sticking and uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, where it can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cheeses besides feta?

Yes! You can substitute feta with goat cheese or even ricotta for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my grilled eggplant is done?

The eggplant should be tender but not falling apart. A nice char means it’s ready!

Is Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes a great addition to meal prep, perfect for lunches throughout the week.

What can I serve alongside Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs?

This dish pairs perfectly with quinoa, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative for a vegan version of this dish.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Herbs is not just flavorful; it’s also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, side, or even as a light main course. Try it out, and enjoy this delicious way of cooking eggplant!