Elevate your summer grilling game with this vibrant recipe for Mediterranean Diet Grilled Eggplants with Garlic and Herbs. Perfectly charred slices of tender eggplant are infused with a zesty marinade of extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and aromatic garlic, enhanced by a medley of fresh parsley and oregano. This wholesome dish is quick and easy, taking just 30 minutes from prep to plate. Naturally plant-based and packed with heart-healthy flavors, these smoky, herbaceous eggplants make an ideal side dish or a star addition to any Mediterranean-inspired feast. Serve warm or at room temperature, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an irresistible burst of color and freshness!
Begin by washing the eggplants thoroughly. Cut off the stems and slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
Lay the eggplant slices on a paper towel and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to help draw out any bitterness.
While the eggplants are resting, prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic (use a garlic press or finely chop), chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh oregano. Mix well to combine.
After the eggplants have rested, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess salt and moisture.
Brush both sides of the eggplant slices generously with the prepared marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat as well.
Place the marinated eggplant slices on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have visible grill marks.
Once cooked, remove the eggplants from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter.
Sprinkle with additional fresh herbs, if desired, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the grilled eggplants warm or at room temperature as a delicious Mediterranean side dish or as part of a main course.
Calories |
522 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 41.9 g | 54% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.6 g | 28% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1199 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.7 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.0 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.9 g | ||
| Protein | 6.6 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 103 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 2.1 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 1406 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.