I am delighted to share my favorite summer recipe – grilled eggplant mozzarella – on the Food and Meal blog today. As someone who looks forward to all the bounty of produce that the warmer months bring, I especially love discovering new ways to enjoy fresh eggplant.
When I first tried grilling eggplant slices and layering them with sweet, creamy mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, I was so pleasantly surprised by the flavors. The smokiness from the grill pairs perfectly with the rich, melted cheese. As the eggplant softens, it takes on an almost meaty texture that makes this dish feel hearty and satisfying.
Preparing these grilled eggplant mozzarella stacks brings me joy because they come together easily, highlight seasonal ingredients, and work nicely for entertaining guests outdoors in the summer. The vibrant colors and textures make for an appetizing presentation. I hope you’ll fire up your grill soon and give this recipe a try! Let me know any variations or tweaks you make to it in the comments.
Grilled eggplant mozzarella recipe
Grilled eggplant mozzarella
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the mozzarella into 12 slices.
- Wash the eggplant, remove the ends and cut the eggplant into 24 slices.
- Wash the tomatoes, remove the stalk and cut the tomatoes into 12 slices.
- Wash, drain and chop the herbs.
- Mix the herbs, spices and oil.
- Peel the onion and cut into rings.
- Heat the contact grill.
- Brush the eggplant with the oil and cook on the contact grill for 4-5 minutes.
- Place one eggplant slice, one tomato slice, mozzarella and onion slice on top of each other. Season with salt and pepper and, if desired, briefly add to the contact grill.
Video
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
How to make Grilled eggplant mozzarella using oven
I am delighted to share my favorite way of making grilled eggplant stacks with mozzarella in the oven! As someone who enjoys both cooking and finding clever shortcuts for dishes typically requiring the grill, I was pleasantly surprised by how well this method works.
When I see those big, glossy eggplants fresh from the farmer’s market, I get excited to slice them up, brush them with olive oil, and get them into a hot oven. As they soften and take on a wonderfully smoky flavor under the broiler, I can already envision the gooey, melty mozzarella and sweet tomato sauce bringing this dish together.
Preparing these “grilled” eggplant stacks in the oven makes me happy because it still delivers on all the iconic flavors – smoky eggplant, rich cheese, sweet tomato sauce – but without needing to heat up the outdoor grill. I love discovering small adaptations like this that provide a satisfying shortcut to some of my favorite summer dishes.
Tips for making Grilled eggplant mozzarella
Cooking Tips
One of my top tips is to not peel the eggplant skin before grilling. Leaving it on protects the flesh as it cooks over the hot grill, allowing it to caramelize while the inside softens to perfection. I feel grateful when that smoky charred flavor shines through in each tasty bite!
I also recommend salting the eggplant after slicing to remove any bitterness. Simply sprinkling with salt and letting sit for a bit before rinsing draws out moisture for better grill marks. Then patting the slices completely dry helps them avoid sticking. When I see those grill marks form on the eggplant, I know I’m on my way to flavorful stacks!
Finally, resist the urge to press down on the eggplant as it grills. I’ve learned this can make the flesh watery and ruin the texture. Instead, I patiently flip only once until tender. Topped with oozing mozzarella cheese and sweet tomato sauce, these smoky grilled eggplant stacks are the ultimate summer treat!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer before pasta or grilled meats
- Pile on bruschetta for an easy starter
- Add tomato slices and make it a salad
- Layer between slices of crusty bread for an eggplant parm panini
- Top with prosciutto, arugula and balsamic reduction
Top 5 FAQs about Grilled eggplant mozzarella
- How do I grill the eggplant for this recipe?
The best way to grill eggplant for this recipe is to slice it about 1/2-inch thick, brush both sides with olive oil, and grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until softened and grill marks appear. You want the eggplant to be tender but still hold its shape.
- What type of eggplant works best?
I prefer to use the large, oval Italian eggplants with dark purple skin and white flesh for grilling. They tend to be less bitter and hold up well on the grill. Smaller Asian or slender Italian eggplants would also work.
- What kind of mozzarella should I use?
Fresh mozzarella, packed in water or brine, works wonderfully in this recipe. The soft, creamy texture melts beautifully into the layers. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, bocconcini (small mozzarella balls) or even shredded mozzarella will substitute nicely.
- Do I need to salt the eggplant first?
Salting eggplant before cooking is optional – it helps remove any bitterness but isn’t necessary if using fresh, firm eggplants. If you do salt, slice eggplant, sprinkle both sides with salt, let sit 20-30 mins, rinse and pat dry before grilling.
- Can I make this dish in the oven?
Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can absolutely roast the eggplant in the oven. Place the oiled eggplant slices on a baking sheet and broil for 4-5 minutes per side until tender and browned. Then assemble and bake the stacks the same way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Grilled Eggplant Mozzarella is a culinary masterpiece that marries the smoky allure of grilled eggplant with the creamy decadence of melted mozzarella. This dish captivates the senses with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, creating a symphony of delight for those who indulge. The simplicity of the ingredients highlights the natural goodness of the eggplant, while the melted mozzarella adds a luxurious and comforting touch. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, Grilled Eggplant Mozzarella stands as a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated yet expertly crafted dishes that elevate the dining experience. It is a celebration of grilled perfection and cheesy indulgence that leaves a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to savor its delectable charm.
- Cooking Like A Pro
- Author Name : Jaime Inez
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