Description
A vibrant and healthy Mediterranean-inspired grilled eggplant ratatouille featuring tender grilled vegetables, fresh arugula, and creamy cheese, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect as a light main course or a flavorful side dish, this recipe offers a delightful combination of smoky, fresh, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium eggplant (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
- 1 small zucchini (sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small red onion (sliced)
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Toppings and Garnish
- 2 cups baby arugula
- 1/2 cup crumbled fresh cheese (goat cheese, feta, or ricotta salata)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- Chopped fresh basil (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the vegetables.
- Toss Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the eggplant, zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix well to ensure even coating of the seasonings and oil.
- Grill Vegetables: Arrange the vegetables in batches on the grill. Cook each side for 3–4 minutes until tender and lightly charred, turning carefully to avoid tearing the slices.
- Cool Vegetables: Remove the grilled vegetables from the grill and allow them to cool slightly to bring out their flavors and make handling easier.
- Assemble the Ratatouille: Arrange the grilled vegetables neatly on a platter or individual serving plates.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle fresh baby arugula over the grilled vegetables, followed by the crumbled fresh cheese.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the assembled dish and garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- This dish works well as a light main course or a hearty side dish.
- For a different taste, substitute fresh cheese with grilled halloumi or mozzarella.
- To add extra protein, consider serving with a poached egg or grilled chicken.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
