Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is a delectable Italian dish that marries the smoky flavors of grilled eggplant with the richness of melted cheese and tangy fresh tomato slices. This classic recipe has a fascinating history rooted in Italian cuisine, and in this blog post, we’ll explore the origins, cultural significance, and sustainable aspects of this mouthwatering dish.

Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is a delectable Italian dish that marries the smoky flavors of grilled eggplant with the richness of melted cheese and tangy tomatoes. This classic recipe has a fascinating history rooted in Italian cuisine, and in this blog post, we’ll explore the origins, cultural significance, and sustainable aspects of this mouthwatering dish.

Eggplant Parmesan, also known as “Melanzane alla Parmigiana” in Italian, traces its roots back to the Southern regions of Italy. The dish originated in the city of Naples, where eggplants were commonly grown and incorporated into various dishes. Its creation can be attributed to resourcefulness, as eggplants were used as a substitute for meat during Lent.

Over the years, Eggplant Parmesan became a staple of Italian home cooking and a symbol of comfort food. Its layers of eggplant, cheese, and tomato sauce reflect the colors of the Italian flag, and the dish has become a beloved representation of Italian culinary heritage.

Grilled Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

This recipe is inspired by WW, it’s only 4 points per serving, and takes just under 30 minutes to prepare. We love this recipe, it’s quick and easy, and has an amazing flavor profile that you don’t get without the grilling!

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4 Points® – Total Time: 25 min – Prep Time: 10 min – Cook Time: 15 min – Serves: 4

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Ingredients

• 4 sprays cooking spray
• 2 medium eggplants, (about 1 lb each), trimmed, each cut lengthwise into 4 thick slices
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¾ tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp Garlic powder
• 1 cup Shredded part skim mozzarella cheese
• 2 medium Tomatoes, each cut into 8 slices
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup basil, torn

Instructions

1. Coat an outdoor grill rack with cooking spray. Preheat the grill to medium-high. Or, preheat the oven broiler to high. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a sheet pan. Sprinkle the tops of the eggplant slices with the Italian seasoning, salt, and garlic powder.
2. Arrange the eggplant, seasoned-side down, on the grill rack. Or, place the pan under the broiler about 4-6 inches below the burner. Turn the pan every 5-minutes or so to get even cooking. Close the grill lid and cook for 5 minutes. Turn the slices over. If using the broiler, then brown evenly as in the previous step. Once both sides of eggplant and fully cooked, top with mozzarella, tomato slices, and Parmesan. Close the grill lid and cook until the cheeses melt, and the eggplant is tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Arrange the eggplant slices on a platter. Garnish with the basil.
3. Serving size: 2 topped eggplant slices

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Tips: To make your Grilled Eggplant Parmesan more sustainable, consider the following tips:

• Choose organic and locally grown eggplants to support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint. Or use your own homegrown eggplant.
• Opt for homemade marinara sauce using fresh, locally sourced tomatoes, or choose a jarred sauce in glass packaging to minimize plastic waste. Or fresh tomatoes from your own garden.
• Use cheeses from sustainable dairy sources or explore plant-based cheese alternatives.
• Compost any vegetable scraps or peels, and recycle glass containers properly.

Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is not just a delicious dish; it’s a reflection of Italian culinary history and a celebration of sustainability. By enjoying this flavorful recipe, you’re not only savoring a piece of tradition but also making a conscious choice to support eco-friendly practices. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the delightful symphony of flavors that Grilled Eggplant Parmesan has to offer. Buon appetito!