Grilled Eggplant with Garlic-Cumin Vinaigrette, Feta, and Herbs
Smoky grilled eggplant rounds drizzled with a bold garlic-cumin vinaigrette, topped with creamy crumbled feta and a fresh herb medley – a Mediterranean-inspired side dish that’s vibrant, savory, and satisfying.
- Author: Djihane
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Preheat grill to medium-high. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill eggplant rounds for 4–5 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and tender. Remove and place on a serving tray.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients until well combined.
- Drizzle grilled eggplant with garlic-cumin vinaigrette.
- Top with crumbled feta, parsley, and mint.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- Eggplant can be grilled ahead and served at room temperature.
- Try adding pomegranate seeds for a pop of sweetness and color.
- Use vegan feta to make this dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: grilled eggplant, feta, garlic cumin vinaigrette, Mediterranean side dish, summer vegetables, herb topping