Heyy how’s it all going? Shahena here… now I have something a little different…Grilled Aubergine with Garlic and Yoghurt.
This recipe is not only healthy and light but also bursting with smoky, creamy, and tangy flavours…perfect for breaking your fast without feeling too heavy. The combination of tender grilled aubergine with a zesty garlic yoghurt sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids to enjoy their veggies (mine love it, especially when they can dip and drizzle!).
So, let’s gooooooo!
Grilled Aubergine with Garlic and Yoghurt
Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the grilled aubergine:
- 2 medium aubergines, sliced into 1cm thick rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the garlic yoghurt sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yoghurt (or plant-based yoghurt for a vegan option)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For serving:
- A drizzle of olive oil
- A sprinkle of chilli flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Warm pitta bread or flatbreads
Method
- Prepare the aubergine: Slice the aubergines into rounds and place them on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to coat each slice evenly.
- Grill the aubergine: Heat a griddle pan or grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the aubergine slices in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until tender and beautifully charred. Set aside on a plate once done.
- Make the garlic yoghurt sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yoghurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the dish: Arrange the grilled aubergine slices on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the garlic yoghurt sauce, then finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of chilli flakes for an extra kick.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the grilled aubergine with warm pitta bread or flatbreads on the side. It’s perfect for sharing and makes a fantastic starter or side dish for Iftar.
Tips!
- If you don’t have a griddle pan, you can roast the aubergine slices in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan) for 20-25 minutes until tender and golden.
- For a smokier flavour, you can grill the aubergine over an open flame (if you have a gas hob) before finishing it in the pan or oven.
- This dish is incredibly versatile! You can serve it as part of a mezze platter, alongside salads, or even as a topping for grain bowls.
That’s it! Simple yet delicious!
I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as we do. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below…I’d love to hear your thoughts! Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan filled with love, joy, and plenty of delicious meals.
Until next time,
Love Shahena x