Marinated Eggplant and Mint Bruschette

Pan-grilled eggplant on cast iron

Credit goes to Jamie Oliver & his fab cookbook Jamie's Italy.

Check out a few of his Italian recipes @jamieoliver.com.

We have an abundance of beautiful eggplants at our local farmer's market. 

If your looking for more top notch ways to serve eggplant in your household, this recipe is a gem. 

Marinated Eggplant and Mint 

From the cookbook Jamie's Italy 

2 firm eggplants, sliced lengthwise about 1/8 inch thick

Extra virgin olive oil

White wine or herb vinegar

2 sprigs of fresh flat -leaf parsley, leaves picked & finely sliced

small handful of fresh mint, leaved picked and finely sliced

1 clove of garlic, peeled & finely sliced

Sea salt & fresh ground black pepper

Heat a griddle pan or cast iron pan until nice & hot. 

Lay your eggplant slices side by side and cook until nicely charred on both sides and place them into a bowl. You may need to work in several batches.

While the eggplants are grilling, put 8 tablespoons of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of vinegar, with the parsley, mint and garlic into another bowl. Season with salt and pepper. 

When the eggplants are all done, add them to the dressing and mix about. Check for seasoning and divide onto toasted bruschette, toasted breads. 

You can make this recipe in any amount of eggplant. The ratio of more olive oil than vinegar stays the same. Pour to taste. This a bowl licking- good dressing ;)

Enjoy!

Bruschette

Bruschette is simply delicious toasted breads. Crusty bread, baguette and artisan bread all make the best crunchy background for your toppings. 

If you have a large loaf, cut it in half, then slice it crossways about a quarter to a half-inch thick depending on your taste.

Methods: You can grill these slices on a dry griddle or cast iron pan on high heat. Throw them on the backyard grill. Drizzle with olive oil, place on a cookie sheet and pop under the broiler for a bit until golden. Or add some olive oil to a pan, turn the heat up and fry your breads, soaking up the oil and creating a golden crust. 

Drizzle your toasted breads with the best peppery olive oil you can find and finish with a sprinkle of salt.

Enjoy!