Crispy Grilled Eggplant and Roasted Pepper Salad: Full Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a flavorful and healthy dish that combines the rich textures of grilled eggplant with the vibrant taste of roasted peppers, look no further than our Crispy Grilled Eggplant and Roasted Pepper Salad. This recipe is a Mediterranean delight, perfect for summer picnics, light lunches, or as a side dish for dinner. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Eggplant has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, prized for its versatility and ability to absorb flavors. Combined with the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers, this salad is a feast for the senses.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 3 red bell peppers
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch rounds and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Roast the bell peppers directly on the grill until the skins are charred and blistered. This should take about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Once done, place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam for 10 minutes. This makes peeling easier.

Step 2: Grill the Eggplants

4. Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill the eggplant slices for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Step 3: Prepare the Peppers and Onions

6. Peel the roasted peppers, remove the seeds, and slice them into thin strips.
7. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the sliced red onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

8. In a large bowl, combine the grilled eggplant, roasted pepper strips, sautéed onions, and diced tomatoes.
9. Add the balsamic vinegar, oregano, cumin, and mix well.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Chop the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

12. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
13. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

Step 6: Final Touches

14. Transfer the salad to a serving platter.
15. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese if using.
16. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips and Variations

• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added texture.
• Make it vegan: Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Herb options: Try using fresh mint or parsley in place of basil for a different flavor profile.
• Protein boost: Add some grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad a more substantial meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 3g

Our Crispy Grilled Eggplant and Roasted Pepper Salad is a delightful dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors in a healthy and satisfying way. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a main course with added protein, this salad is sure to please your palate and impress your guests. Give it a try and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates..