Grilled Eggplant Layered with Shaved Garlic and Fresh Thyme

How would you rate this recipe?
Would you make this recipe again?
What skill level is this recipe?

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Japanese eggplant (if not available, use regular eggplant)
  • 3/4 to 1 cup olive oil, divided
  • 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons sea salt
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste
  • 6 cloves garlic, sliced paper-thin
  • 6 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1/2 to 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar

Directions

Preheat gas grill. Cut eggplant lengthwise into 3⁄8-inch-thick slices. Place 4 tablespoons olive oil into a small bowl. Dip your fingers in oil and quickly spread it onto each slice of eggplant. (Using of your fingers instead of a brush will result in less oil used.) Arrange eggplant slices on a grill rack, and grill until golden, 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside until cool enough to handle.

Arrange a layer of eggplant in the bottom of a dry, sterilized wide-mouthed 1-quart jar with a lid. Sprinkle with some salt, red pepper flakes, garlic and thyme. Continue layering in the same manner until all eggplant, garlic and thyme have been used. Combine remaining olive oil and vinegar and pour it over eggplant layers. Cover the jar with plastic wrap and then cover with the lid. Place in the refrigerator until ready to use, up to 2 weeks.

PCC Member Card Illustration

Don’t Just Shop Your Values. Own Them.

When you’re a PCC member, your voice and your groceries go further — every purchase you make supports our community. Join our co-op today for a one-time fee of $60 and enjoy a lifetime of benefits, including exclusive offers and events, partner discounts with local businesses and more.

Become a member