Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

This Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe is a must-try for any eggplant lover! Whether you have fresh eggplants from your garden or pick some up from the store, this dish is sure to impress. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side dish and brings a delightful kick of flavor. With its rich spices and the smoky aroma from grilling, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and taste, making it perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Flavorful and Spicy: The combination of garlic, Aleppo pepper, and fresh herbs gives this eggplant a fantastic flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as part of a main meal; it fits various occasions perfectly!
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this grilled eggplant is a great addition to any healthy diet.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spice according to your taste by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor on the eggplant.
• Baking Sheet: Useful for laying out eggplant slices after oiling them before grilling.
• Paper Towels: Important for removing excess moisture from the eggplant to ensure optimal grilling results.
• Whisk: Needed to mix together your flavorful marinade quickly.

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe:

• 1 large globe eggplant
• 2 tsp. salt, to remove water from eggplant
• 2 T olive oil, to brush eggplant for grilling
• 2 T chopped parsley
• 2 T chopped fresh mint
• 2 T olive oil
• 2 tsp. red apple vinegar
• 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp. garlic puree (or finely minced fresh garlic)
• 1 tsp. Aleppo Pepper (or less, to taste)
• 1 tsp. Spike Seasoning (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

• Remove the stem end from the eggplant and wash it thoroughly without peeling.
• Cut the eggplant into slices approximately 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick. Ensure all slices are uniform for even cooking.

Step 2: Salt the Eggplant

• Arrange sliced eggplants in a single layer on double-thick paper towels and sprinkle salt over them.
• Allow liquid to ooze out for 20 minutes; then turn over and salt the other side. Let drain for another 20 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

• While waiting for the eggplant to drain, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, lemon juice, garlic puree, Aleppo Pepper, and Spike Seasoning in a bowl.
• Chop mint and parsley.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

• Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (you should only be able to hold your hand there for 3–4 seconds).

Step 5: Final Prep Before Grilling

• After draining time has passed, cover the eggplant pieces with another layer of paper towels and press gently to squeeze out excess water.
• Wipe each slice dry with additional paper towels and lay them on a baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with olive oil.

Step 6: Grill the Eggplant

• Place the prepared eggplant on your hot grill. Cook each side for about 4–5 minutes while rotating occasionally for nice grill marks.
• Watch carefully; they can go from nicely browned to overly dark very quickly!

Step 7: Add Sauce and Serve

• Once grilled perfectly, remove them from the grill and place them in a single layer in a baking dish or use the same baking sheet.
• Spoon some of your spicy sauce over each piece of grilled eggplant. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes so that they can absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!

• Assemble grilled eggplants on a serving plate and sprinkle with chopped mint and parsley before serving warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

Spicy Grilled Eggplant is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or an appetizer, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy the grilled eggplant on its own as a flavorful main dish. The spices and herbs create a delightful taste that stands out.

In a Salad

• Slice the grilled eggplant and toss it into a fresh salad. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

On a Sandwich

• Layer the grilled eggplant between slices of crusty bread with hummus or tzatziki for a delicious vegetarian sandwich.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the spicy grilled eggplant over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This combination makes for a filling and nutritious meal.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the grilled eggplant into bite-sized pieces and serve as an appetizer. Pair it with dipping sauces like tahini or yogurt for extra flavor.

In Tacos

• Use the grilled eggplant as a filling for soft tacos. Add toppings like avocado, salsa, and shredded cabbage for a tasty twist.

How to Perfect Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

To ensure your Spicy Grilled Eggplant turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Choose Fresh Eggplants: Select firm, shiny eggplants without blemishes. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor.
• Salt Properly: Salting helps draw out moisture and bitterness. Be sure to let them sit long enough before rinsing.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures good sear marks and prevents sticking. Aim for medium-high heat before placing the eggplant on it.
• Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the eggplants while grilling. They can go from perfectly charred to burnt quickly.
• Let Them Rest: Allowing the eggplants to sit after grilling helps them absorb flavors from the sauce better.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Adjust spices according to your taste preference. Feel free to try different herbs or spices beyond the recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Grilled Eggplant can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad packed with vegetables adds texture and freshness to your plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a colorful contrast and complement the spiciness of the eggplant.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the eggplant.
4. Greek Yogurt Dip: A cooling yogurt dip balances out the heat from the eggplant, making it an ideal accompaniment.
5. Tabbouleh: This herb-heavy salad enhances flavors while adding brightness to your meal.
6. Chickpea Stew: A hearty chickpea stew offers protein and pairs well with grilled vegetables.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds sweetness and crunch alongside your spicy dish.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs rounds out this flavorful meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the salting step: Not salting the eggplant can lead to a bitter taste. Always salt the eggplant and let it drain to remove excess moisture.
• Cutting uneven slices: If your eggplant slices are not uniform, they will cook unevenly. Aim for 3/4 inch thick slices for consistent grilling.
• Overly hot grill: A grill that’s too hot can burn the eggplant quickly. Preheat to medium-high heat and keep a close eye on it while grilling.
• Neglecting to marinate: Skipping the marination process means missing out on flavor. Letting the grilled eggplant sit with the spicy sauce enhances its taste.
• Serving immediately: Serving right off the grill can prevent the eggplant from absorbing flavors. Allow it to rest with sauce for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

• Place cooled eggplant in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months, but note that texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place eggplant on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place eggplant on a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil and reheat eggplant for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I adjust the spice level in this Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe?

Yes, you can easily adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or Aleppo Pepper based on your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more as needed.

What type of eggplant works best for this recipe?

While large globe eggplants are ideal, you can also use Italian or Japanese varieties. Just ensure they are fresh and firm for the best results.

How do I know when my grilled eggplant is done?

Grilled eggplant should be tender and have nice grill marks after about 4-5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and grill the eggplant ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for optimal taste.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish, part of a main course, or even as a topping for salads, it’s sure to impress your guests! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today, and savor every bite!

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Spicy Grilled Eggplant

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Discover the vibrant flavors of this Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe, perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners. This dish transforms simple eggplants into a scrumptious treat with a delightful kick. Infused with garlic, Aleppo pepper, and fresh herbs, each bite delivers a burst of flavor that will impress even the most discerning palates. Whether enjoyed as a main course, side dish, or appetizer, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion. The grilling process adds a smoky aroma that enhances the overall taste while keeping it healthy and low in calories.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

Ingredients

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• 1 large globe eggplant
• 2 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 2 tsp red apple vinegar
• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic puree
• 1 tsp Aleppo pepper
• Fresh parsley and mint for garnish

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Instructions

1. Slice the eggplant into uniform 3/4 inch thick pieces and salt them to remove excess moisture. Let drain for 40 minutes.
2. While draining, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic puree, and Aleppo pepper in a bowl.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Pat dry the eggplant slices and brush both sides with olive oil.
5. Grill each slice for 4-5 minutes per side until tender and marked.
6. Remove from grill and drizzle with the marinade; let sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and mint.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg