Grilled Eggplant with Balsamic Vinegar Relish: A Summer Delight

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy the fresh flavors of the season. Eggplant, with its meaty texture and mild taste, is an excellent candidate for grilling. When paired with a vibrant and tangy balsamic vinegar relish, it transforms into a sophisticated and incredibly delicious dish. This recipe for grilled eggplant with balsamic vinegar relish is easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light main course. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary masterpiece.

Why This Recipe Works

* **Simple and Quick:** This recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
* **Bursting with Flavor:** The combination of smoky grilled eggplant, sweet and tangy balsamic vinegar relish, and fresh herbs creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Versatile:** This dish can be served in various ways – as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, as an appetizer with crusty bread, or as a vegetarian main course.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Eggplant is low in calories and rich in antioxidants, while balsamic vinegar offers numerous health benefits. This recipe is a healthy and guilt-free way to enjoy the flavors of summer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start grilling, gather the following ingredients:

**For the Grilled Eggplant:**

* 2 medium eggplants, preferably globe or Italian variety
* 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (for extra flavor)

**For the Balsamic Vinegar Relish:**

* 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar, high quality
* 1/4 cup olive oil, extra virgin
* 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
* 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* Optional: 1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped; 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Equipment You’ll Need

* Grill (gas, charcoal, or indoor grill pan)
* Knife and cutting board
* Mixing bowls
* Whisk or fork
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Optional: Grill basket (for preventing small pieces from falling through the grates)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get started with the grilling process:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. **Wash the Eggplant:** Rinse the eggplants thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. **Trim the Ends:** Cut off the stem and blossom ends of the eggplants.
3. **Slice the Eggplant:** You have several options for slicing the eggplant:
* **Thick Slices:** For a meaty texture, cut the eggplant into 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick rounds. This is the most common and recommended method.
* **Long Planks:** Cut the eggplant lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick planks. This method is good for grilling larger pieces and can be easier to handle on the grill.
* **Cubes:** Cut the eggplant into 1-inch cubes. This method is ideal for using a grill basket to prevent the pieces from falling through the grates.
4. **Salt the Eggplant (Optional but Recommended):** Salting the eggplant helps to draw out excess moisture and reduces any potential bitterness. Place the eggplant slices or cubes in a colander and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for 30-60 minutes. Rinse the eggplant thoroughly with water and pat dry with paper towels.
5. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. This simple marinade will add flavor and help prevent the eggplant from sticking to the grill.
6. **Brush or Toss with Marinade:** Brush the eggplant slices or cubes with the olive oil mixture, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated. If using cubes, you can toss them in a bowl with the marinade.

Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Vinegar Relish

While the eggplant is marinating (or salting), prepare the balsamic vinegar relish:

1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Finely dice the red bell pepper and red onion. Mince the garlic. Chop the fresh basil and parsley leaves.
2. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Add the diced red bell pepper, red onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, and chopped parsley to the bowl.
3. **Adjust to Taste:** Taste the relish and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more balsamic vinegar for tanginess, honey for sweetness, or salt and pepper for flavor. If using capers or pine nuts, stir them in at this stage.
4. **Let it Sit:** Allow the relish to sit at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Step 3: Grill the Eggplant

1. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and covered with a layer of ash.
2. **Clean and Oil the Grates:** Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush. Lightly oil the grates with cooking oil to prevent the eggplant from sticking. You can use a grill spray or brush the grates with oil using a heat-resistant brush.
3. **Grill the Eggplant:** Place the eggplant slices or cubes on the preheated grill. Make sure not to overcrowd the grill; work in batches if necessary. If using cubes, use a grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates.
4. **Grill Time:** Grill the eggplant for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred. Flip the eggplant carefully using tongs or a spatula. Look for grill marks on the surface of the eggplant.
5. **Check for Doneness:** The eggplant is done when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as it can become mushy.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. **Arrange the Eggplant:** Transfer the grilled eggplant to a serving platter.
2. **Top with Relish:** Spoon the balsamic vinegar relish generously over the grilled eggplant.
3. **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the grilled eggplant with balsamic vinegar relish immediately while it is still warm. It can be enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course.

Tips for the Best Grilled Eggplant

* **Choose the Right Eggplant:** Look for eggplants that are firm, heavy for their size, and have smooth, shiny skin. Avoid eggplants with blemishes or soft spots.
* **Salting is Key:** Salting the eggplant helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a better texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step!
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Grill:** Overcrowding the grill can lower the temperature and prevent the eggplant from browning properly. Work in batches if necessary.
* **Control the Heat:** Maintain a medium-high heat to ensure the eggplant cooks through without burning. Adjust the heat as needed.
* **Use a Grill Basket:** If grilling eggplant cubes, use a grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to add other ingredients to the balsamic vinegar relish, such as capers, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or other fresh herbs.
* **Make Ahead:** The balsamic vinegar relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The grilled eggplant is best served immediately, but it can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.

Variations and Additions

* **Grilled Eggplant with Goat Cheese:** Crumble goat cheese over the grilled eggplant and balsamic vinegar relish for a creamy and tangy flavor combination.
* **Grilled Eggplant with Pesto:** Spread pesto over the grilled eggplant before topping with the balsamic vinegar relish for a vibrant and herbaceous twist.
* **Grilled Eggplant with Feta Cheese:** Crumble feta cheese over the grilled eggplant and balsamic vinegar relish for a salty and briny flavor contrast.
* **Spicy Grilled Eggplant:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic vinegar relish for a touch of heat.
* **Grilled Eggplant with Lemon:** Add lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice to the balsamic vinegar relish for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Vegan Option:** Ensure your honey or sweetener alternative is plant-based (maple syrup or agave). The recipe is naturally vegan if you omit cheese.

Serving Suggestions

* **Side Dish:** Serve grilled eggplant with balsamic vinegar relish as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or tofu.
* **Appetizer:** Serve it as an appetizer with crusty bread or crackers.
* **Salad Topping:** Add it to salads for a boost of flavor and texture.
* **Sandwich Filling:** Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
* **Bruschetta Topping:** Spread it on toasted baguette slices for a delicious bruschetta topping.
* **Pasta Sauce:** Blend the grilled eggplant and balsamic vinegar relish into a pasta sauce for a flavorful and healthy meal.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 150-200 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Fat: 10-15 grams
* Protein: 2-3 grams
* Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
* Fiber: 3-4 grams

Storing Leftovers

* **Grilled Eggplant:** Leftover grilled eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
* **Balsamic Vinegar Relish:** Leftover balsamic vinegar relish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may meld together even more over time.

Conclusion

Grilled eggplant with balsamic vinegar relish is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for summer entertaining. With its smoky grilled flavor, tangy balsamic vinegar relish, and fresh herbs, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or main course, this recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of the season. So, fire up the grill and get ready to experience the culinary delight of grilled eggplant with balsamic vinegar relish!

Enjoy your meal!