Savory Grilled Eggplant Slices
Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Savory Grilled Eggplant Slices, a simple yet delicious side dish that highlights the rich, meaty texture of eggplant. Perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or meal prep, these grilled slices are enhanced with a fragrant blend of garlic and Italian herbs. The result is a perfectly tender and charred eggplant that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main courses or can be enjoyed on its own as a healthy, flavorful snack. Get ready to elevate your vegetable game with this delightful recipe that everyone will love!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
eggplant
1 large (peeled and sliced into 3/4-inch slices)
butter or margarine
1/3 cup (melted)
garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Start by peeling the eggplant and slicing it into uniform 3/4-inch thick rounds to ensure even cooking.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter or margarine with the garlic salt and Italian seasoning, stirring well until fully blended.
3
Using a brush, generously coat both sides of the eggplant slices with the butter mixture. Sprinkle each slice lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
4
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once ready, place the eggplant slices directly onto the grill.
5
Grill the eggplant for 10 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with any remaining butter mixture, until the slices become tender and show a beautiful char.
6
Remove from the grill and serve warm, either as a side dish or a delicious appetizer.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Grilled Eggplant Slices?
Savory Grilled Eggplant Slices is a flavorful side dish made by grilling eggplant rounds seasoned with garlic salt, Italian herbs, and butter.
How thick should I cut the eggplant slices?
For even cooking and the best texture, slice the eggplant into uniform 3/4-inch thick rounds.
Do I need to peel the eggplant before grilling?
Yes, the recipe recommends peeling the eggplant before slicing it into rounds.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a blend of garlic salt, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for a savory flavor profile.
How long does it take to grill the eggplant?
The eggplant should be grilled for approximately 10 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and charred.
What grill temperature is best for eggplant?
Preheat and maintain your grill at medium heat for the best results.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil to make the dish vegan-friendly.
What should I serve with grilled eggplant?
These slices pair well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or can be served as a healthy snack or appetizer.
Can I use oil instead of butter for the baste?
Yes, olive oil or another vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for melted butter or margarine.
Is this grilled eggplant recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific seasoning labels to be sure.
How do I prevent the eggplant from being bitter?
While peeling helps, using fresh eggplant and ensuring it is grilled until fully tender helps reduce bitterness.
Can I cook this in a pan if I do not have a grill?
Yes, you can use a stovetop grill pan or a heavy skillet over medium heat to achieve a similar charred effect.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 8 people.
Can I prepare the eggplant slices ahead of time?
You can slice the eggplant in advance, but it is best to brush with the butter mixture and grill immediately to prevent browning.
What type of eggplant works best for this recipe?
A large traditional globe eggplant is ideal for creating the wide rounds needed for this recipe.
Can I add cheese to the grilled eggplant?
Yes, sprinkling parmesan or mozzarella over the slices during the last minute of grilling adds a delicious finish.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, eggplant is a nutrient-dense vegetable, and this recipe uses simple seasonings and grilling for a healthy side dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute dried Italian seasoning with fresh chopped basil, oregano, and rosemary.
What is the texture of the finished eggplant?
The eggplant becomes tender and meaty with a slight char on the outside from the grill.
Should I salt the eggplant to draw out moisture first?
This specific recipe does not require pre-salting, as the 3/4-inch thickness and grilling time handle moisture well.
Can I use garlic powder instead of garlic salt?
Yes, you can use garlic powder, but you may want to increase the regular salt slightly to maintain the flavor balance.
How do I know when the eggplant is done?
The slices are done when they are soft and tender in the middle and have clear grill marks on both sides.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, the slices can be grilled and then used in salads, sandwiches, or grain bowls throughout the week.
Can I make this on a charcoal grill?
Absolutely, a charcoal grill will add a nice smoky depth to the savory eggplant slices.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe falls under the Vegetable category and is primarily a side dish.
Can I add spice to this recipe?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes to the butter mixture if you prefer a spicy kick.
Is margarine or butter better for this recipe?
Butter provides a richer flavor, while margarine is a great option for those avoiding dairy.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 simple ingredients: eggplant, butter/margarine, garlic salt, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, with only 6 ingredients and simple instructions, it is an excellent choice for novice cooks.