Grilled Aubergines with Tzatziki Sauce
Grilled Aubergines with Tzatziki Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that makes a perfect appetizer for any gathering. This dish combines the smoky richness of grilled eggplant with the cool and refreshing creaminess of tzatziki, a yogurt-based dip infused with cucumber, garlic, and herbs. Topped with aromatic spices, fresh pomegranate kernels, and a drizzle of olive oil, this recipe offers a delicious and visually stunning appetizer for your next party.
Whether served warm or at room temperature, these grilled aubergine slices are sure to impress your guests with their depth of flavor and texture. Paired with a variety of other Mediterranean dishes such as Spinach Basil Cottage Cheese Lasagna, this recipe is versatile and delightful.
Recipe Details
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Course: Appetizer
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brinjal (Eggplant) | 2 whole | Also known as Baingan |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup + extra for brushing | Use high-quality olive oil |
| Fresh Thyme Leaves | 5-6 sprigs | Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish |
| Fresh Pomegranate Kernels | 1/4 cup | Adds a burst of sweetness and color |
| Za’atar | 1 teaspoon | A Middle Eastern spice blend |
| Sumac | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds a tangy, citrus-like flavor |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust to preference |
| Freshly Ground Black Pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
| Tzatziki Sauce | 1 cup | Prepared or store-bought |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | For drizzling over the grilled eggplant |
| Fresh Thyme Leaves | 2-3 sprigs | For garnish |
Instructions
Grilling the Eggplant:
-
Preheat the Oven or Grill Pan:
- If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 180°C (350°F).
- Alternatively, heat a grill pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
-
Prepare the Eggplant:
- Slice the eggplants (brinjal) in half lengthwise, cutting straight through the green stalk.
- The slices should be oval and relatively thin, ensuring they cook evenly.
-
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
-
Brush with Olive Oil:
- Arrange the eggplant slices on the baking sheet.
- Brush both sides of each slice generously with olive oil to ensure they grill well.
-
Season the Eggplant:
- Sprinkle the eggplant slices with fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper to taste.
-
Grill the Eggplant:
- If you’re using the oven, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Grill the eggplant for 25–30 minutes or until the eggplant becomes soft and charred marks appear.
- If you’re using a grill pan, grill each slice for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
-
Cool the Eggplant:
- Once grilled, remove the eggplant slices from the heat and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
Assembling the Dish:
-
Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
- If you’re using store-bought tzatziki, ensure it is well-mixed. If homemade, follow your favorite tzatziki recipe (a mix of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs).
-
Assemble the Grilled Aubergine:
- Spoon a generous amount of tzatziki sauce onto each grilled eggplant slice. Spread the dip evenly over the top of each slice.
-
Garnish the Eggplant:
- Sprinkle the grilled eggplant with Za’atar, sumac, and a pinch of salt.
- Add fresh pomegranate kernels for a sweet and tangy crunch.
- Garnish with a few fresh thyme sprigs to enhance the Mediterranean aroma.
-
Final Touch:
- Drizzle a light amount of extra virgin olive oil over the top for an extra layer of richness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Aubergines with Tzatziki Sauce can be served as a warm appetizer or at room temperature. It’s the perfect starter to serve at your next Mediterranean-themed dinner or party. The rich, smoky flavor of the grilled eggplant pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce and the aromatic spices. For a more substantial meal, serve this dish alongside other Mediterranean favorites like Spinach Basil Cottage Cheese Lasagna or a fresh Greek salad.
Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors as the smoky eggplant, creamy yogurt sauce, and vibrant toppings come together in every bite!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |
Tips and Variations:
- Vegan Option: If you’d like to make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the tzatziki with a dairy-free version made with coconut or cashew yogurt.
- Grill Marks: For an authentic grilled flavor, make sure to use a grill pan with ridges or an outdoor grill.
- Pomegranate Seeds: If fresh pomegranates are out of season, you can also use dried pomegranate seeds or omit them altogether for a more minimalist dish.
- Extra Spice: For an added kick, sprinkle some chili flakes or drizzle a bit of harissa sauce over the eggplant before serving.
This Grilled Aubergines with Tzatziki Sauce recipe brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Its combination of smoky eggplant, tangy tzatziki, and vibrant spices will leave your guests raving about this flavorful dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy!
