Description
Jamie Oliver’s grilled aubergine brings Mediterranean charm to your table with smoky, herb-infused slices. Charred edges and delicate seasoning create a simple yet sophisticated side dish that elevates any meal with Mediterranean elegance.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Main Ingredients:
- 2 large aubergines, sliced into ½ centimeters (¼ inches) rounds
Dairy and Cheese:
- 40 grams (1.4 ounces) crumbled feta
- 70 grams (2.5 ounces) tahini
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 120 milliliters (4 fluid ounces) extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon crushed chili flakes
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature, creating an ideal surface for caramelizing vegetables with perfect grill marks.
- Prepare a flavor-enhancing marinade by combining extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, and red chili flakes in a small mixing bowl.
- Carefully coat the aubergine (eggplant) slices with the herbed oil mixture, ensuring even coverage and seasoning generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Arrange the seasoned aubergine slices directly on the hot grill, cooking for approximately 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a tender interior and beautifully charred exterior.
- While the aubergine is grilling, create a creamy tahini sauce by whisking together tahini paste, freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 30 milliliters or 2 tablespoons), room temperature water, and finely minced garlic.
- Adjust the tahini sauce’s consistency by gradually adding water, one tablespoon (15 milliliters) at a time, until it reaches a smooth, drizzle-friendly texture.
- Remove the grilled aubergine slices from the heat and transfer to a serving platter.
- Garnish the warm aubergine with crumbled feta cheese, creating a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for added brightness and herbal notes.
- Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the grilled aubergine and drizzling the prepared tahini sauce, creating a harmonious blend of Mediterranean flavors.
- Serve immediately while the aubergine is still warm, allowing the flavors to meld and delight the palate.
Notes
- Grill this Mediterranean aubergine dish for a smoky, flavor-packed summer experience that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
- Select firm, glossy aubergines with unblemished skin to guarantee the best possible texture and taste profile.
- Patting aubergine slices dry before oiling ensures stunning grill marks and prevents unwanted steaming during cooking.
- Oregano and chili flakes provide a subtle warmth that enhances the delicate aubergine without overwhelming its natural flavor.
- Tahini dressing can be prepped two days ahead, making meal preparation incredibly convenient and stress-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: UK
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 304 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 162 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 3 mg