Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

This Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe is an exciting way to enjoy eggplant, especially if you have a garden full of it. This dish is not just for summer barbecues; it’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or even a cozy dinner at home. The bold flavors and the smoky char from the grill make this recipe stand out. Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The blend of spices and fresh herbs elevates the humble eggplant into a deliciously unique dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish, on top of salads, or as a filling for wraps—this recipe fits any meal plan!
• Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is suitable for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this grilled eggplant is a guilt-free addition to your meals.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes to match your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the perfect grilled eggplant, having the right tools and preparation methods is essential. Here’s what you need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks on your eggplant.
• Whisk: Helps in combining ingredients smoothly for your marinade.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures even slicing of eggplant for consistent cooking.

Ingredients

This Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe requires simple yet flavorful ingredients that make it easy to prepare.

For the Eggplant

• 1 large globe eggplant
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons red apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic puree or minced fresh garlic
• 1 teaspoon Aleppo Pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon 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 and wash the eggplant thoroughly without peeling it. Cut the eggplant into slices about 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick. Ensure all slices are uniform for even cooking.

Step 2: Drain Excess Water

Arrange the sliced eggplant in a single layer on double-thick paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 20 minutes until liquid starts to ooze out. Afterward, turn over each slice, sprinkle with more salt, and 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 barbecue grill to medium-high heat. You should only be able to hold your hand there for about 3-4 seconds.

Step 5: Dry the Eggplant

After draining, cover the eggplant pieces with another layer of paper towels and press down gently to squeeze out excess water. Wipe them dry before laying them out on a baking sheet.

Step 6: Brush with Olive Oil

Brush both sides of each eggplant slice with olive oil before placing them on the grill.

Step 7: Grill the Eggplant

Place the prepared eggplant on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. Rotate occasionally until they achieve nice grill marks but be careful not to overcook them.

Step 8: Absorb Flavors

Once cooked, remove from grill and place in a single layer in a baking dish. Spoon some spicy marinade over each piece and let sit for 10-15 minutes so they can absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 9: Serve

Assemble grilled eggplant on a serving plate and sprinkle generously with fresh mint and parsley before serving warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

How to Serve Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

Spicy Grilled Eggplant is a versatile dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the grilled eggplant as the star of your meal, topped with additional spicy sauce for extra flavor.

In a Salad

• Combine slices of the grilled eggplant with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

With Pita Bread

• Pair the eggplant with warm pita bread and a side of hummus for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer.

On a Sandwich

• Create a hearty sandwich by layering grilled eggplant on crusty bread with fresh vegetables and spreads like tzatziki or pesto.

As Part of a Platter

• Arrange the eggplant slices on a large platter along with olives, cheeses, and other grilled vegetables for an impressive appetizer spread.

Topped with Yogurt Sauce

• Drizzle creamy yogurt or tzatziki sauce over the eggplant for an added layer of creaminess and flavor.

How to Perfect Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh eggplants when possible. They have better flavor and texture.
• Slice Evenly: Cut the eggplant into uniform slices to ensure even cooking on the grill.
• Don’t Skip Salting: Salting helps draw out moisture from the eggplant, making it more flavorful and reducing bitterness.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill properly; medium-high heat is ideal for achieving nice grill marks without burning.
• Experiment with Flavors: Adjust spices according to your taste. Feel free to add more herbs or spices if you enjoy heat!
• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked eggplant to sit in the sauce for 10-15 minutes helps it absorb flavors deeply.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

Complement your Spicy Grilled Eggplant with these delicious side dishes. Each pairing enhances the flavors while providing variety to your meal.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light and nutritious salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter or flavored oils makes an excellent smoky side.
3. Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
4. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices provide protein and texture.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs adds Mediterranean flair.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread complements the spicy flavors beautifully while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the salting process: Not salting the eggplant can lead to a soggy texture. Always salt the slices to draw out excess moisture for better grilling results.
• Cutting uneven slices: If your eggplant slices are not uniform, they will cook at different rates. Aim for 3/4 inch thick slices to ensure even cooking.
• Neglecting to preheat the grill: Cooking on a cold grill can cause the eggplant to stick or not achieve those beautiful grill marks. Preheat your grill to medium-high before placing the eggplant on it.
• Overcooking the eggplant: Eggplant can quickly turn from perfectly grilled to burnt. Keep an eye on them and cook for just 4-5 minutes per side.
• Forgetting the herb garnish: Skipping fresh herbs like mint and parsley can reduce flavor. Always finish with a sprinkle of herbs before serving for added freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled eggplant in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

• You can freeze grilled eggplant for longer storage.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the eggplant on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Arrange pieces in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and warm the eggplant for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I serve with Spicy Grilled Eggplant?

You can pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or serve it as part of a vegetable platter. It’s also delicious in sandwiches or wraps.

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

Yes! You can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes based on your preference. Feel free to experiment with spices that suit your taste.

How do I know when my eggplant is cooked?

The eggplant should be tender and have nice grill marks. It should not feel mushy but should give slightly when pressed.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe is great for meal prep and can be stored in both refrigerator and freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Grilled Eggplant Recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile, making it an excellent addition to any meal. You can customize it by adjusting spices or adding different herbs based on your preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Spicy Grilled Eggplant

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Spicy Grilled Eggplant is a vibrant and flavorful dish that transforms the humble eggplant into a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal. Perfect for summer barbecues, family picnics, or cozy dinners at home, this recipe features a delightful blend of spices and herbs that elevate the taste. The smoky char from grilling adds an irresistible depth of flavor, while the spice level can be easily adjusted to suit your palate. Enjoy it as a standalone dish, in salads, or as a filling for wraps—this versatile recipe is sure to impress.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large globe eggplant
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 2 teaspoons red apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic puree
• 1 teaspoon Aleppo Pepper (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Slice the eggplant into uniform pieces about 3/4 inch thick.
2. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them drain on paper towels for about 40 minutes.
3. While draining, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic puree, and Aleppo Pepper in a bowl.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Dry the eggplant slices and brush both sides with olive oil.
6. Grill each slice for about 4-5 minutes per side until tender and marked.
7. Transfer grilled eggplant to a dish and drizzle with marinade; let sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 114
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg