Sunday December 10, 2023

Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant Rolls offer a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. These delectable rolls consist of thinly sliced eggplant, carefully grilled to perfection, and then rolled with a tantalizing mixture of creamy feta cheese, briny olives, and a medley of aromatic herbs.
This exquisite blend of ingredients not only makes it a scrumptious appetizer but also a satisfyingly light and keto-friendly meal option.
The roots of this dish trace back to the rich culinary heritage of the Mediterranean region, where eggplants have been cherished for centuries.
Known for their versatility and health benefits, eggplants have been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine since ancient times.
To prepare these rolls, slice the eggplant lengthwise, salt them to draw out excess moisture, and then grill until tender. The feta cheese, olives, and herb mixture can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients. Opt for fresh basil, mint, or oregano to enhance the Mediterranean essence.
Nutritionally, this dish is a winner as it is low in carbs, high in fiber, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Eggplants are a rich source of antioxidants, while feta cheese provides calcium and protein.
To store any leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. These rolls can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated for a warm treat.
Famous celebrity chef and food enthusiast, Nigella Lawson, has expressed her love for these Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant Rolls on numerous occasions, praising their savory allure and health benefits.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, mint, or oregano)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and place them in a colander for about 20-30 minutes.
- This helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplants.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the crumbled feta cheese, chopped olives, and fresh herbs together to create the filling.
- Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with pepper.
- Grill the eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are soft and have grill marks.
- Remove the eggplant slices from the grill and let them cool slightly.
- Place a spoonful of the feta cheese mixture on one end of each eggplant slice and carefully roll them up.
- Secure the rolls with toothpicks if needed.
- Serve the Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant Rolls as an appetizer or a light meal option.