Grilled Eggplant Rounds

Grilled Eggplant Rounds are a simple, healthy side dish or appetizer made by grilling thick eggplant slices until tender and smoky, then topping them with a vibrant garlic herb dressing. This dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with Mediterranean flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky and charred with a tender interior
• Pairs well with any main course
• Easy to prepare and naturally healthy
• Great hot, warm, or room temperature
• Perfect for summer or grilling season

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Eggplant (globe or Italian), sliced into rounds
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper

Garlic Herb Dressing:

• Fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Red wine vinegar or lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Slice eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds. Salt lightly and let sit 10 minutes, then pat dry.
2. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until grill marks form and slices are tender.
4. Whisk together garlic, herbs, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle the dressing over grilled eggplant and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes

Variations

• Add crumbled feta or goat cheese on top
• Use mint or dill in place of parsley
• Serve over hummus or with warm pita
• Sprinkle with chili flakes for heat

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or eat cold as a salad-style side.

FAQs

Do I need to peel the eggplant?

No, the skin is edible and helps hold the rounds together on the grill.

Can I roast instead of grill?

Yes, roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I prevent sogginess?

Don’t overcrowd the pan and slice evenly. Salting beforehand also helps.

What else can I serve these with?

They go well with grilled meats, salads, or grain bowls.

Can I freeze grilled eggplant?

Not recommended—texture becomes mushy after thawing.

What’s the best way to get grill marks?

Use high heat and avoid moving the rounds until they naturally release.

Can I make the dressing ahead?

Yes, prepare up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate.

Is this low-carb?

Yes, eggplant is low in carbohydrates and suitable for keto diets.

Can I use a grill pan?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan works perfectly.

Can I use bottled dressing?

You can, but fresh dressing provides better flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled Eggplant Rounds with Garlic Herb Dressing are a vibrant, wholesome side that highlights eggplant’s natural flavor with minimal ingredients. With their smoky char and herbaceous finish, these rounds are a perfect addition to any Mediterranean-style meal.

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