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Grilled Eggplant Caprese

Grilled Eggplant Caprese: A Flavorful Twist on Tradition

A vibrant Grilled Eggplant Caprese recipe, bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for outdoor dining.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Infusion Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Eggplant
  • 2 medium Eggplant Choose firm, unblemished eggplants.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Finely minced; can substitute with garlic powder.
  • 3 tablespoons Olive or Grapeseed Oil Grapeseed oil withstands higher heat.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Layering
  • 4 medium Tomatoes Opt for heirloom or vine-ripened varieties.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Choose fresh mozzarella; burrata is a substitute.
For the Finishing Touch
  • ½ cup Pesto Use homemade or store-bought.
  • ½ cup Basil Leaves Freshly picked; arugula can be used as an alternative.

Equipment

  • grill
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Garlic Oil: Mince the garlic and combine it with olive or grapeseed oil. Let sit for 30–60 minutes to infuse.
  2. Preheat the Grill and Slice the Eggplant: Preheat grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Slice the eggplant into ½–¾ inch rounds, brush with garlic oil, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Prepare the Tomatoes: Slice tomatoes into thick rounds and brush with remaining garlic oil.
  4. Grill the Eggplant: Cook eggplant slices for 3–4 minutes per side until tender with grill marks.
  5. Grill the Tomatoes: Grill tomato slices for 30–45 seconds on each side, keeping the lid closed.
  6. Layer the Grilled Ingredients: Assemble dish by layering grilled tomato slices over eggplant, topping with mozzarella. Close grill lid for 2–3 minutes to melt cheese.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Transfer to serving platter, drizzle with pesto and add fresh basil leaves. Optionally, drizzle with garlic oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Enjoy crafting your delicious Grilled Eggplant Caprese that will surely impress your family and friends!

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