Recipe: Moroccan Grilled Eggplant Salad
Introduction
Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique combinations of spices. One dish that exemplifies this is Moroccan Grilled Eggplant Salad. This dish combines the smoky flavor of grilled eggplant with the tanginess of a lemon and garlic dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for any summer barbecue or as a light lunch on its own.
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 2: Prepare the eggplant
Cut the eggplants into 1/2 inch thick rounds. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Grill the eggplant
Place the eggplant slices on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have grill marks.
Step 4: Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Assemble the salad
Arrange the grilled eggplant on a platter. Drizzle the dressing over the eggplant and sprinkle with chopped parsley and mint.
Variations
- Add diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and salty addition.
- Swap out the herbs for cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped almonds or pine nuts for some crunch.
Conclusion
Moroccan Grilled Eggplant Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With its smoky grilled eggplant and tangy dressing, it’s sure to be a hit at your next summer barbecue or dinner party. Give it a try and see for yourself how delicious Moroccan cuisine can be!