Grilled Eggplant Caprese Salad Recipe

Gather ’round, my fellow food enthusiasts, because I just stumbled upon what might be the ultimate summer salad that screams fresh and fabulous: grilled eggplant caprese with layers of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a touch of basil magic.

When I create a Grilled Eggplant Caprese Salad, I love how the smoky eggplant pairs with the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes. The olive oil brings everything together while fresh basil adds an aromatic touch.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze elevates the flavors. It’s a delicious, nutritious delight perfect for summer.

Grilled Eggplant Caprese Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Eggplants: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, low in calories.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhances flavor.
• Tomatoes: High in vitamin C and lycopene, refreshing taste.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Good source of protein and calcium, creamy texture.
• Basil Leaves: Aromatic herb, adds freshness and flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: Sweet, tangy, enhances dish with rich flavor.

Grilled Eggplant Caprese Salad Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 medium eggplants
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 large tomatoes
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

How to Make this Grilled Eggplant Caprese Salad Recipe

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds and brush both sides with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Place the eggplant slices on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are tender and have grill marks.

4. Remove the eggplant from the grill and let them cool slightly.

5. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch thick rounds.

6. On a serving platter, layer the grilled eggplant slices, tomato slices, and mozzarella slices, arranging them in an overlapping pattern.

7. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers of eggplant, tomato, and mozzarella.

8. Drizzle the entire arrangement with balsamic glaze.

9. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

10. Serve immediately as a refreshing and savory salad. Enjoy!

Grilled Eggplant Caprese Salad Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Grill
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Pastry brush
5. Serving platter
6. Tongs

FAQ

• Can I prepare the eggplant in advance for this salad?
  Yes, you can grill the eggplant in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before assembling the salad.
• What type of eggplant should I use?
  Use medium-sized globe eggplants for best results, as they have a good flesh-to-skin ratio and grill well.
• Can I use another type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
  Yes, you can substitute with burrata or even goat cheese, but keep in mind that this will change the classic caprese flavor profile.
• Is there a way to make my own balsamic glaze?
  Yes, you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar on the stovetop until it thickens, adding sugar or honey if desired.
• How can I make this dish vegan?
  Substitute the mozzarella cheese with a plant-based alternative like almond-based mozzarella or cashew cheese.
• What’s the best way to cut eggplant for grilling?
  Slice the eggplant into rounds about 1/2 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and don’t become too mushy.
• Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
  Certainly! Consider adding arugula for some peppery flavor or pine nuts for extra crunch.

Grilled Eggplant Caprese Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Eggplants: You can substitute with zucchini or portobello mushrooms for a similar texture and grilling capability.
• Olive oil: Consider using avocado oil or grapeseed oil as alternatives, both offering a mild flavor and high smoke point.
• Fresh mozzarella cheese: Burrata or sliced goat cheese can be great substitutes, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Balsamic glaze: If unavailable, you can reduce balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or maple syrup to mimic the glaze’s sweetness and consistency.

Pro Tips

1. Salting the Eggplant Before grilling, sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 20-30 minutes. This helps to draw out any bitterness and moisture, resulting in a creamier texture when grilled. Rinse and pat them dry before applying olive oil.

2. Even Cooking To ensure even cooking, try to slice the eggplants into uniform thickness. A mandoline can be handy for achieving consistent slices.

3. Fresh Mozzarella Opt for high-quality fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and texture. If possible, use mozzarella di bufala for an even creamier bite.

4. Basil Variations Experiment with different types of basil, such as Thai basil or lemon basil, to add unique flavor notes to your dish.

5. Customizing the Glaze Try making your own balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey for added sweetness, which complements the savory elements nicely.