California Grilled Eggplant with Tahini Dressing

Introduction

Get ready to savor the rich, smoky flavor of perfectly grilled eggplant, finished with a creamy tahini dressing. Cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill, this recipe ensures an even sear while preserving the eggplant’s natural juices. Whether you're serving it as a side or a main, this smoky, nutty, and velvety dish will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, cut into 3/4-inch slices
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins inside the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the top of the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Season the eggplant

1. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Grill the eggplant

1. Place the eggplant slices on the hotter part of the outer flat top griddle.
2. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once, until golden brown and tender.
3. Move the eggplant towards the outer edge if needed to adjust cooking temperature.

Step 4: Prepare the tahini dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, cumin, and honey.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding more water if needed for desired consistency.

Step 5: Plate and garnish

1. Arrange grilled eggplant slices on a serving plate.
2. Drizzle generously with tahini dressing.
3. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, grill the eggplant closer to the fire initially.
• Don’t skimp on the butter—it enhances the smoky-sweet profile.
• Tahini thickness varies; adjust the dressing consistency as needed.

Variations

1. Spicy Harissa: Add 1 tsp of harissa paste to the tahini dressing for a spicy twist.
2. Miso Glaze: Swap tahini for miso paste and mix it with honey and sesame oil.
3. Mediterranean Delight: Top with crumbled feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed toasted almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
5. Herb Infusion: Mix fresh chopped mint and dill into the tahini dressing.

Conclusion

Grilled eggplant with tahini dressing is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare on the Arteflame grill. The even heat distribution ensures a perfectly caramelized exterior, while the creamy dressing complements its smoky aroma. Whether as a side or a plant-based main, this dish is always a hit!

Best pairings

• Grilled lamb chops with garlic butter.
• Fresh pita bread with hummus.
• Cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing.
• A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.