Savory Herb and Garlic Grilled Eggplant Stacks
Indulge in the rich flavors of Savory Herb and Garlic Grilled Eggplant Stacks, a delightful dish that perfectly merges the earthy taste of eggplant with the aromatic notes of fresh herbs and garlic. This versatile recipe shines whether served hot off the grill or enjoyed at room temperature as a refreshing snack or elegant appetizer. The simplicity of the preparation allows the natural sweetness of the eggplant to come forth, enhanced by the vibrant herbs. Ideal for any occasion, these stacks can stand alone or make an impressive side dish alongside grilled meats, pasta, or salads. Embrace a dish that invites you to savor each bite and celebrate the bounty of fresh ingredients.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Eggplants
2 (medium, sliced into 1/4-inch thick round slices (about 2 pounds))
Extra virgin olive oil
2/3 cup (for brushing and marinating)
Garlic cloves
4 (large, minced)
Fresh basil
1/2 cup (minced, tightly packed)
Italian parsley
1/2 cup (minced, tightly packed)
Black pepper
1/8 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the eggplant. Lightly brush both sides of each eggplant slice with extra virgin olive oil. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, parsley, basil, and black pepper, mixing well to form a fragrant herb blend.
2
Spread a portion of the herb mixture over each eggplant slice. Layer the slices on a large platter, covering with plastic wrap, and allow them to marinate at room temperature for 2 to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3
For outdoor grilling, ignite a charcoal fire and heat until the briquettes are covered with white ash, indicating a moderate heat. Sprinkle the marinated eggplant slices with salt and grill for about 10 minutes, flipping once. The goal is to achieve deep golden-brown grill marks, and for each slice to become tender when pierced with a knife. Once grilled, transfer the slices to a serving platter and spoon any remaining herb mixture over them for added flavor.
4
If cooking indoors, utilize a gridded skillet or stovetop grill. Grill the eggplant slices in batches over medium heat, ensuring they are not overcrowded, for about the same time as mentioned above until evenly golden brown. Alternatively, preheat your broiler and place the slices 4 inches from the heat source, spreading the marinade over each slice. Broil slowly, watching closely until they are perfectly caramelized and soft.
5
To serve, stack the grilled eggplant slices and lavish them with shavings of Parmigiano-Reggiano or a sheep's cheese for an extra touch of richness. Enjoy this dish warm, or at room temperature, as a delightful starter or light main course.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Herb and Garlic Grilled Eggplant Stacks recipe?
It is a dish that combines grilled eggplant slices with a fragrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil, served as stacks.
How many eggplants are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 medium eggplants, which is approximately 2 pounds.
How thick should the eggplant be sliced?
The eggplant should be sliced into 1/4-inch thick round slices.
What type of oil is recommended for brushing the eggplant?
Extra virgin olive oil is used for both brushing and marinating.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
You will need 4 large garlic cloves, minced.
What fresh herbs are used in the marinade?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup each of minced fresh basil and Italian parsley.
How much black pepper should be added?
Use 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
How long should the eggplant marinate?
The eggplant should marinate at room temperature for 2 to 4 hours.
Do I need to cover the eggplant while it marinates?
Yes, cover the platter with plastic wrap while it marinates.
When should I add salt to the eggplant?
Sprinkle the eggplant with salt just before grilling.
What is the total grilling time?
The eggplant should be grilled for about 10 minutes total.
How many times should the eggplant slices be flipped?
The slices should be flipped once during the grilling process.
How do I know the charcoal grill is ready?
The grill is ready when the briquettes are covered with white ash, indicating moderate heat.
What are the signs that the eggplant is fully cooked?
The eggplant should have deep golden-brown grill marks and be tender when pierced with a knife.
Can I cook this recipe indoors?
Yes, you can use a gridded skillet or stovetop grill over medium heat.
Is there a broiler option for this recipe?
Yes, preheat the broiler and place slices 4 inches from the heat source, watching closely until caramelized.
How should the herbs be measured?
The basil and parsley should be minced and then tightly packed into a measuring cup.
What should I do with the remaining herb mixture after grilling?
Spoon any remaining herb mixture over the grilled slices for extra flavor.
What kind of cheese can be added to the stacks?
Shavings of Parmigiano-Reggiano or a sheep's cheese are recommended.
Can these eggplant stacks be served cold?
They can be served warm or at room temperature.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this is a vegetarian dish.
What can I serve with these eggplant stacks?
They pair well with grilled meats, pasta, or fresh salads.
Why should I grill in batches for indoor cooking?
Grilling in batches ensures the skillet is not overcrowded, allowing the eggplant to brown evenly.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients including seasonings.
What is the texture of the finished eggplant?
The finished eggplant should be soft and tender.
Is the garlic raw when applied?
Yes, the garlic is minced and mixed with herbs to form a raw blend that marinates and then cooks on the grill.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
It is savory with strong aromatic notes of garlic and fresh Mediterranean herbs.
Can this dish be an appetizer?
Yes, it makes an elegant appetizer or a refreshing snack.
What is the best type of parsley for this recipe?
Italian parsley (flat-leaf) is specifically recommended.
How much oil is needed for the recipe?
You will need 2/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil.