Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

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Grilled Eggplant Parmesan
Prep
20 min
Cook
15 min
Total
55 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. Place the eggplant in a large bowl. Add 4 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir well to combine and let it marinate for 20 minutes.

  2. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.

  3. Thread the shallot and tomatoes onto skewers. Brush 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them. Grill for 4 minutes, then flip and grill for another 4 minutes.

  4. Transfer the grilled tomatoes and shallot to a blender. Add vinegar, garlic, crushed chili flakes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pulse until blended but still chunky. Set aside.

  5. Grill the eggplant slices for 5 minutes. Flip, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt over them, and top each slice with a slice of mozzarella. Grill until the cheese begins to melt, about 2 minutes.

  6. Spoon the tomato mixture onto a serving platter. Top with the grilled eggplant slices. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil.

  7. If you are using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to using. Also, note that you can leave the skin on the eggplant, but you may choose to peel it before marinating if desired.

About this recipe

The Perfect Twist on a Classic Dish

Are you tired of the same old recipes? Looking to add a new twist to a classic dish? Look no further than grilled eggplant Parmesan! This mouthwatering dish combines the smoky flavor of grilled eggplant with the cheesy goodness of traditional Parmesan. It's a match made in culinary heaven. So, let's dive in and discover the secrets behind this delectable creation.

Why Grilled Eggplant?

Grilling the eggplant adds a unique dimension to the dish. The smoky flavor and slightly charred exterior give it a deliciously rich taste that takes eggplant Parmesan to a whole new level. It's like adding a touch of magic to your plate.

The Cheese Factor

What's Parmesan without the cheese? The gooey, melted cheese on top of the grilled eggplant creates a heavenly combination. It's a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Preparation Made Easy

Don't be intimidated by the idea of making grilled eggplant Parmesan. It's surprisingly easy and doesn't require any fancy techniques. With just a few simple steps, you'll be able to whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in no time.

Step 1: Grilling the Eggplant

Start by slicing the eggplant into thick rounds. Brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Now, it's time to fire up the grill. Place the eggplant slices on the grates and let them cook until they are tender and have those beautiful grill marks.

Step 2: Layering the Goodness

Once the eggplant slices are grilled to perfection, it's time to start layering. Begin with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Then, layer the grilled eggplant slices, followed by more sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat this process until the dish is filled to the brim.

Step 3: Baking to Perfection

Pop the dish into a preheated oven and let the flavors meld together. Watch as the cheese melts and becomes golden and bubbly. The aroma filling your kitchen will be impossible to resist.

In Conclusion

Grilled eggplant Parmesan is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The smoky grilled eggplant combined with the cheesy goodness of Parmesan creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to add some variety to your meals, this dish is a winner. So, fire up the grill and get ready to indulge in the magic of grilled eggplant Parmesan!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Parmesan is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a different flavor profile.

Can I make grilled eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply bake it when you're ready to serve.

Can I make grilled eggplant Parmesan without grilling the eggplant?

Of course! If you don't have access to a grill, you can achieve a similar result by roasting the eggplant in the oven.

Is grilled eggplant Parmesan vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! The dish is perfect for vegetarians and can be enjoyed as a main course or a satisfying side dish.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms can be added to the layers for an extra burst of flavor.

How do I ensure the eggplant slices are tender?

To ensure tender eggplant slices, make sure to choose firm and fresh eggplants. Additionally, grilling them until they are golden brown will ensure that they are cooked through.

What can I serve with grilled eggplant Parmesan?

Grilled eggplant Parmesan pairs well with a side of pasta, a fresh salad, or even crusty bread. The possibilities are endless!

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! If you have any leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container and freeze for a future delicious meal.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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