Ultimate Arteflame Grilled Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

Creating the perfect Eggplant Parmesan on the Arteflame grill brings out the best flavors with a steakhouse quality sear. This method ensures the eggplant slices are tender on the inside with a crispy, golden crust. This recipe will teach you how to achieve restaurant-quality results at home using the reverse searing method.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup butter (for grilling)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Get the Grill Ready: Start by firing up the Arteflame grill to get it ready for grilling.
2. Prep the Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into 1/2 inch rounds. Season with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Coat the Eggplant: Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Sear the Eggplant: Place the eggplant slices on the center grill grate and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
5. Finish Cooking: Move the seared eggplant to the outer flat cooktop and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender.
6. Assemble and Melt Cheese: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on each eggplant slice, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and let it melt on the flat cooktop until bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the eggplant reaches your desired level of tenderness.
• Rotate the eggplant on the flat cooktop to utilize different heat zones for even cooking.
• Let the eggplant rest after grilling to retain its juices.

Variations

1. Spicy Eggplant Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture and use a spicy marinara sauce.
2. Garlic Herb Eggplant Parmesan: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) to the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Pesto Eggplant Parmesan: Spread a layer of pesto sauce on the eggplant slices before adding marinara and mozzarella.
4. Four Cheese Eggplant Parmesan: Use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and fontina cheeses.
5. Eggplant Parmesan with Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms on top of the eggplant slices before adding marinara and cheese.

Pairings

• Best Drink: Serve with a glass of Chianti or a refreshing iced tea.
• Best Appetizer: Pair with a Caesar salad or garlic bread.
• Best Dessert: Enjoy with tiramisu or grilled peaches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Enjoy your perfectly seared and flavorful Eggplant Parmesan, a true vegetarian delight. This recipe guarantees a crispy, tender result every time you fire up your Arteflame grill.