I love cooking with eggplants because their spongy texture absorbs all the sauces and flavors. They are also an excellent meat substitute if you’re vegetarian or trying to consume less meat. Eggplants are often featured in Mediterranean diets and can be prepared in so many different ways. They are part of the nightshade family (along with tomatoes, white potatoes, bell peppers, paprika, and cayenne), which can cause inflammation to people who are sensitive to this group of foods. If you are not sensitive to them, keep eating them because they are high in nutrients and are so versatile to cook with!
This grilled summer salad is bright and fresh. I sometimes use a variation of green and yellow summer squash to add even more color (and flavor). Enjoy!
Ingredients
(serves 4 as a side)
1 medium eggplant, sliced into ¾ inch round slices
4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise
1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
¼ small red onion sliced thinly
¼ cup mint leaves, torn
2 tbsp avocado oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the dressing:
Juice from 1 lemon
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
Directions:
After charring, before roasting
Preheat the grill to medium heat
Drizzle zucchini and eggplant slices with avocado oil, salt and pepper
Add zucchini and eggplant to hot grill, grilling for about 5 minutes a side
Allow zucchini and eggplant to cool. Then chop into 1 inch pieces
Assemble all vegetables in a serving bowl.
Whisk together dressing ingredients. Pour over vegetables. Toss and serve.
Top with feta crumbles (optional)
Health Benefits of Eggplants
Eggplants contain a rare, yet beneficial type of antioxidant called nasunin. Nasunin helps fight free radical damage in our bodies, which is a major contributor to the development of disease
Eggplants can help balance cholesterol levels because their antioxidant levels help fight inflammation and reduce oxidative stress
They have a high water content, making them low in calories
The high fiber, high water content also helps flush out waste and toxins from the digestive tract
They are also on the EWG “Clean 15” list, so while organic is always better, conventional eggplants have low levels of pesticide residue
For more delicious eggplant recipes, check out this link here!
Sources and additional reading:
