Introducing Grilled Eggplant: A Nutritious and Flavorful Side Dish for Your Grill Out
Elevate your next grill out with the delightful addition of Grilled Eggplant. Not only does this side dish boast incredible flavors, but it also offers a wealth of health benefits derived from the eggplant’s abundant vitamin, mineral, and nutrient content. Packed with essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, thiamin, niacin, magnesium, phosphorous, copper, dietary fiber, folic acid, potassium, and manganese, eggplants are a nutritional powerhouse that deserve a spot on your grilling menu.
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Grilled Eggplant not only provides a deliciously satisfying culinary experience but also contributes to a balanced and wholesome diet. The vitamin C in eggplants promotes a healthy immune system, while vitamin K supports bone health and blood clotting. Vitamin B6 aids in brain function and metabolism, and thiamin and niacin play essential roles in energy production. Meanwhile, the minerals magnesium, phosphorous, and copper contribute to various bodily functions, from nerve function to energy metabolism.
Furthermore, the dietary fiber found in eggplants promotes digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels and cholesterol. With its folic acid content, eggplant is particularly beneficial for expectant mothers as it supports proper fetal development. Potassium contributes to heart health and helps maintain a healthy balance of fluids in the body, while manganese acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
Grilled Eggplant offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the remarkable health benefits of this versatile vegetable. Simply prepare the eggplant by slicing it into thick rounds or lengthwise strips, brush it with olive oil, and place it on the grill until tender and slightly charred. The result is a dish that tantalizes the taste buds while nourishing the body with its abundant nutrient profile.
So, the next time you plan a grill out, make sure to include Grilled Eggplant as a delightful and nutritious side dish. Embrace the wonderful flavors and health benefits that this vibrant vegetable brings to the table, and enjoy a well-rounded culinary experience that leaves you satisfied and nourished.
Serve this excellent eggplant with Grilled Chicken & Apple Cider Vinegar Marinade. Savory Grilled T-Bones or Grilled Rib-Eye. Plus some broiled Cheesy Garlic Bread, homemade Ciabatta Bread or some crusty French Bread . Add in a garden fresh salad and what a perfect meal.
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PrintGrilled Eggplant
Grilled Eggplant is an excellent side dish to your next grill out. The wonderful health benefits of eggplants are primarily derived from its vitamin, mineral, and nutrient content.
- Prep Time: :40
- Cook Time: :10
- Total Time: :50
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Side
- Method: Grilled
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fine sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
- 3 medium eggplants
- About 1/3 cup olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl dissolve the 2 tablespoons of salt in 1 cup warm water; stir until the salt is fully dissolved. Add 6 to 8 cups cold water. Set aside (this is the brine).
- Cut off and discard the stem end of the eggplant. While some people find eggplant skin difficult to digest, I recommend leaving the skin on for grilling and simply not eating it, since it helps the eggplant slices keep their shape on the grill and makes them easier to handle. Cut the eggplant into ¾-inch thick diagonal, crosswise, or lengthwise slices. Put the slices in the salt water, weigh them down with an upside-down plate, and let soak for at least 30 minutes and up to an hour.
- Meanwhile, heat a charcoal or gas grill to medium-high heat. You should be able to hold your hand about an inch above the cooking grate for 3 to 4 seconds before pulling it away from the heat.
- Drain the eggplant and pat it dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Lay the slices on a large baking sheet or tray. Brush one side with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Lay the slices oiled-side-down on the grill. Close the lid if using a gas grill and cook until grill marks appear, about 5 minutes.
- Brush the top sides of the slices with oil and sprinkle them with salt. Turn the slices over, close the lid on a gas grill and cook until grill marks appear on the other side and the eggplant is very tender about 5 more minutes. Serve hot or at room temperature.