There’s a certain magic that happens when an eggplant meets an open flame. The outside gets beautifully charred while the inside turns lusciously tender. Our Charred Eggplant with Garlic Recipe is a Mediterranean delight that epitomizes simplicity and elegance. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner under a pergola, evoking the sunlit courtyards of the Mediterranean with every bite. The garlic infuses the eggplant with aromatic intensity, and a drizzle of olive oil adds richness, making this a recipe worth trying for its flavors and the beautiful moments it will create around your table.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- While the grill is heating, cut the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Place the eggplant slices on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are tender and have nice char marks.
- In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the eggplant slices are done, remove them from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the garlic olive oil mixture over the charred eggplant slices.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Helpful Tips
Tips: For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the olive oil and garlic mixture. Beginners can use a stove-top grill pan if an outdoor grill isn’t available.
Storage Instructions: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side.
Ingredient substitution: For an ingredient substitution, try using zucchini or portobello mushrooms in place of eggplants for a different texture and flavor profile.
Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of quinoa salad, a crusty loaf of bread, and a glass of chilled white wine or mint lemonade.
Here at Zynahz, we believe that every dish tells a story and every moment in the kitchen is an opportunity to create lasting memories. We’d love for you to try our Charred Eggplant with Garlic Recipe and share your culinary adventures with us. Share this recipe with friends and family, and follow us on social media for more inspiring recipes. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for the latest kitchen tips and recipe ideas. Let’s make cooking a joyous and creative experience together!
