Grilled eggplant is a delicious, nutritious option for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters alike. It's rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Paired with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, this dish becomes a flavorful and satisfying option for both lunch and dinner.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Eggplant
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional variations:
- For a vegan option, use dairy-free yogurt.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
- Wash and dry the eggplants. Cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Place the eggplant slices on a paper towel and sprinkle them with salt. Allow them to sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with another paper towel.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Brush both sides of each eggplant slice with the seasoned olive oil mixture.
Step 2: Grill the Eggplant
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the eggplant slices on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
- Remove the eggplant from the grill and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer, add chopped fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 4: Serve and Store
- Arrange the grilled eggplant slices on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the garlic yogurt sauce over the eggplant or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
- Garnish with additional herbs, if desired.
To store, keep the grilled eggplant and garlic yogurt sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the eggplant on a grill or in an oven before serving.
Final Encouragement
Don't be afraid to experiment with this recipe! Try adding your favorite spices, or using the garlic yogurt sauce on other grilled vegetables. We'd love to see your creations, so share your version of Grilled Eggplant with Garlic Yogurt Sauce with us on social media.
Enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!
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