Grilled eggplant with green sauce

Grilled Eggplants with Green Sauce – A delicious and healthy combination that will win you over!

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Calories per serving: approximately 150 kcal

Eggplants have been used for centuries in various culinary cultures, appreciated not only for their rich taste but also for their versatility in dishes. This simple recipe for grilled eggplants with green sauce will not only add a splash of flavor to your meal but will also become a favorite side dish alongside a juicy pork roast or grilled chicken breast.

Ingredients:

- 3 medium eggplants
- 2 bunches of fresh parsley
- 4 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- 4-5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar (optional, but recommended for a pleasant contrast)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the eggplants: Start by washing the eggplants well under a stream of cold water. It is important to remove any impurities. Cut off the ends of the eggplants and then slice them into rounds about 3-4 mm thick. These thin slices will cook evenly and will achieve a pleasant texture on the grill.

2. Heating the grill: If you are using a charcoal or electric grill, make sure it is well heated before adding the eggplants. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan will work perfectly. Add a little oil to prevent sticking.

3. Cooking the eggplants: Add the eggplant slices to the grill (or pan) and cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become nicely browned and have distinct grill marks. You can lightly salt them to enhance the flavor.

4. Preparing the green sauce: While the eggplants are cooking, you can prepare the sauce. Finely chop the parsley and place it in a bowl. If you have a food processor, it will make the job much easier. Add the crushed garlic, olive oil, and salt to taste. If you desire a touch of acidity in the sauce, add balsamic vinegar and mix well until you obtain a smooth paste.

5. Assembling the dish: Once the eggplants are ready, you can start assembling them. On a platter, place a layer of eggplants, add a portion of green sauce, then repeat the process until all ingredients are used. The last layer should be the sauce. Let the dish sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serving: Serve the grilled eggplants as a side dish alongside your favorite roast or as a vegetarian main course. They are delicious both warm and cold and can be accompanied by a fresh salad or toasted bread.

Practical tips:

- Choosing eggplants: Look for firm eggplants without spots or signs of damage. Smaller eggplants have a sweeter taste and better texture.
- Vegan option: This dish is already vegan, but if you want to enrich it, you can add roasted cherry tomatoes or olives for an extra flavor boost.
- Parsley: If you don’t have parsley, you can substitute with basil or cilantro for a green sauce with a different taste.
- For a creamier sauce: You can add a bit of Greek yogurt or tahini to the green sauce for a richer texture.
- Cook more eggplants: If you have more eggplants, you can prepare them and store them in the fridge. They keep well for a few days and are excellent for sandwiches or salads.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen eggplants?: While it is possible, fresh eggplants will provide a better texture and taste. Only freeze them after cooking.
- How can I avoid the bitterness of eggplants?: Salting them before cooking helps to remove moisture and bitterness. You can let them drain for 30 minutes after salting.
- What other sides go well with grilled eggplants?: These eggplants pair wonderfully with basmati rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Servings and combinations:

These eggplants are versatile and can be served with various dishes. You can pair them with a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade to contrast the intense flavors. You can also try serving them alongside a portion of quinoa or bulgur for an extra nutrient boost.

So, don’t hesitate to put your creativity to the test! Grilled eggplants with green sauce are not only a simple and delicious recipe but also an opportunity to experiment with various ingredients and create a dish that reflects your personal cooking style. Enjoy your meal!