Grilled Eggplant with Marinara (1 Hr, 10 Mins)

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Grilled eggplant is a simple yet delightful dish, offering a smoky flavor that pairs well with the vibrant zest of homemade tomato sauce. This recipe delivers a mouth-watering combination of the eggplant’s meaty texture, the rich tang of marinara, and the aromatic kick of garlic and green onions. It’s a straightforward, delicious side dish that can easily hold its own or complement a main course.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • Salt, for drawing out moisture from eggplant
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for added heat

Instructions

  1. Prep the Eggplant (5 minutes + 30 minutes rest time): Lay out the eggplant rounds on a paper towel and sprinkle both sides generously with salt. Allow them to sit for at least 30 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture and bitterness. After 30 minutes, rinse the slices thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Prepare the Marinara (20 minutes): In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Grill the Eggplant (10 minutes): Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with the remaining olive oil. Place them on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they have nice grill marks and are tender.
  4. Serve (5 minutes): Place the grilled eggplant rounds on a serving plate. Spoon the homemade marinara over the rounds and sprinkle with chopped green onions.

Notes

These grilled eggplant rounds are a versatile dish, perfect a light main when paired with a salad or some crusty bread. For those who love cheese, a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan or crumbled feta can elevate this dish even more. If you’re looking to add a meaty component, consider topping with some grilled chicken or prosciutto for an added protein boost if desired. Keep any leftover marinara sauce in the fridge; it pairs wonderfully with pasta or as a base for pizzas.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

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