Eggplants on the grill

Grilled Eggplants – A Simple and Savory Delight

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Looking for a quick, healthy, and extremely tasty recipe? Grilled eggplants are the perfect choice! This dish is not only easy to make but also full of flavor, making it suitable as an appetizer or side dish. I invite you to discover the magic of eggplant with me, an ingredient with a rich history and amazing versatility.

About Eggplants

Eggplants have been cultivated for thousands of years and are appreciated worldwide for their meaty texture and delicate taste. These vegetables are rich in antioxidants and nutrients, providing health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and supporting cardiovascular health. Additionally, eggplants are low in calories, making them ideal for diets. A serving of eggplant (about 100g) contains only 25 calories, so you can enjoy them without worries!

Ingredients:

- 2 medium eggplants (choose firm eggplants with smooth, shiny skin)
- Salt (to draw out moisture)
- Olive oil (optional, for a richer taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- Garlic sauce for serving

Step by step:

1. Preparing the eggplant: Start by washing the eggplants under cold running water. Use a vegetable brush if necessary to remove any impurities. Then, cut the eggplants into slices about 1-2 cm thick. This thickness will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.

2. Salting the eggplant: Place the eggplant slices in a large bowl and generously sprinkle them with salt. Place a weight on top (you can use a plate) and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. This step is essential, as the salt will help draw moisture from the eggplants, preventing a soft and watery texture when cooked.

3. Preparing the grill: Meanwhile, prepare the grill. Preheat it to a medium-high temperature. If you are using an electric grill, make sure it is well heated before adding the eggplants.

4. Rinsing and drying: After the eggplants have drained, rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt. Dry them well with a kitchen towel or paper towels.

5. Grilling: If you wish, you can brush each slice with a bit of olive oil, but this is not strictly necessary. Place the eggplant slices on the grill and let them cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. You will know they are ready when they turn golden and have nice grill marks on their surface.

6. Serving: Once the eggplants are cooked, remove them from the grill and place them on a platter. You can sprinkle them with freshly ground black pepper for added flavor. Serving with garlic sauce is a real treat! The combination of eggplant with garlic sauce brings a perfect contrast between the sweet taste of the vegetable and the strong aroma of garlic.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with various herbs and spices, such as oregano, basil, or even chili to add a bit of heat. You can also try adding feta cheese or mozzarella on top, letting it melt on the grill.

- Serving: These grilled eggplants pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or toasted bread. You can also use them as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

- Storage: If you have leftover eggplants, you can keep them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them on the grill or in the oven to bring them back to life.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen eggplants?
I do not recommend using frozen eggplants for this recipe, as the texture will change. It is best to use fresh eggplants.

2. How can I avoid bitterness in eggplants?
Salt helps to remove bitterness from eggplants. Make sure to follow the salting step and rinse them well before cooking.

3. Can I cook eggplants in the oven?
Absolutely! You can place them on a baking tray, brush them with olive oil, and bake them at 200°C for 20-25 minutes.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I wish you happy cooking! Grilled eggplants are not only a quick and simple recipe but also an excellent way to bring a touch of health and flavor to your meals. Enjoy!