Delicious Grilled Eggplant Recipe – Perfect Summer Side Dish
Grilling vegetables in the summer is a delightful way to enjoy fresh produce, and this grilled eggplant recipe is one of the best ways to do it. With the perfect blend of soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil, this dish brings out the best flavors in eggplant, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
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The Best Grilled Eggplant Recipe
This grilled eggplant side dish is very simple to make with soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. The charred eggplant also tastes great in a sandwich. Serve hot, at room temperature, or cold.
Notes on Ingredients
To make this grilled eggplant recipe, you will need:
- Soy Sauce: Adds a rich umami flavor that complements the eggplant perfectly.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Provides a tangy sweetness that balances the soy sauce.
- Olive Oil: Helps to marinate the eggplant and keeps it moist during grilling.
- Large Eggplant: When peeled and sliced, it absorbs the marinade beautifully and grills to tender perfection.
How to Make Grilled Eggplant
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
- Prepare the Marinade: Mix soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil together in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Marinate the Eggplant: Add the eggplant slices to the marinade, turning several times to coat.
- Grill the Eggplant: Lift eggplant out of the marinade and carefully place onto the preheated grill, watching for flare-ups. Cook until deep brown and tender, about 5 minutes per side.
How to Serve Grilled Eggplant
Grilled eggplant is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish to complement grilled meats, or use it as a filling for sandwiches and wraps. It can be enjoyed hot, at room temperature, or even cold, making it a great option for meal prep and picnics.
How to Store Grilled Eggplant
To store grilled eggplant, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or enjoy cold in salads and sandwiches.
FAQs About Grilled Eggplant
Can I use other types of vinegar for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different vinegars like red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
How do I prevent the eggplant from sticking to the grill?
Make sure to oil the grill grate well and ensure the grill is preheated properly to medium-high heat before adding the eggplant slices.
Can I make this recipe without peeling the eggplant?
Yes, you can leave the skin on if you prefer. The skin can add a bit of texture, though it might be slightly tougher.
What can I do with leftover grilled eggplant?
Leftover grilled eggplant can be added to salads, pasta dishes, or used as a topping for pizzas.
The Best Grilled Eggplant Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 large eggplant peeled and cut into 1/2-inch slices
Instructions
- Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
- Mix soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and oil together in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add eggplant slices and turn several times to coat.
- Lift eggplant out of marinade and carefully place onto the preheated grill, watching for flare-ups. Cook until deep brown and tender, about 5 minutes per side.
