This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is the perfect dish for August-October. When you’re not ready to let go of warm summer nights and delicious summer produce. These Grilled Sweet Peppers with Spicy Eggplant Dip is a flavorful and healthy appetizer that combines the smoky goodness of grilled peppers with the bold flavors of a zesty eggplant dip.
Ingredients
Eggplant and sweet peppers are at their prime from late spring through early fall. You’ll find the freshest and most flavorful options at your local farmer’s market or grocery store during these months.
Ingredients for the Spicy Eggplant Dip:
Eggplant: The star of our dip, eggplant provides a creamy texture and a smoky flavor when roasted or grilled.
Jalapeño: Adds a spicy kick to balance the creaminess of the eggplant.
Green Onions: Offer a subtle oniony flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Garlic: Infuses the dip with a rich, aromatic essence.
Dill: Imparts a refreshing and herbal note, enhancing the Mediterranean profile.
Cherry Tomatoes: Bring a hint of sweetness and acidity to brighten up the dip.
Salt, Pepper, and Red Pepper Flakes: These seasonings elevate the overall taste.
Roasting Eggplant
Roasting eggplant in the oven is a fantastic way to get a smoky flavor and tender texture. To make the most of this method, ensure you slice your eggplant into even quarters, for even cooking. Generously brush both sides of the slices with olive oil, which enhances the flavor and helps achieve a beautiful caramelization. Cut slits into the eggplant to ensure the insides get roasted. This simple technique yields perfectly roasted eggplant that’s versatile and ready to be used in a wide range of dishes, from salads and mains, to this spicy eggplant dip.
Grilling Peppers
When grilling any vegetable, peppers included, you’ll want to start by preheating your grill pan on medium-high heat before adding the vegetables.Brush the vegetables lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. You can either use a grilling dish like I am and toss the peppers with tongs. Alternatively, you can lie them flat on a baking tray. Grill until the peppers have grill marks and are slightly softened, typically 4-5 minutes per side.
Enjoy as a side dish or a delicious main course
Grilled Sweet Peppers with Spicy Eggplant Dip recipe offers flexibility and versatility. As a side dish, these perfectly grilled sweet peppers add a burst of color and flavor to any meal, creating a harmonious balance with their smoky sweetness. If you’re seeking a more substantial option, consider turning this combination into a main entrée. Serve it over a bed of couscous or quinoa for a wholesome vegetarian dish, or pair it with grilled chicken or lamb for a heartier fare. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, this recipe is bound to delight your taste buds and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Similar Recipes
Nothing celebrates the end of summer like using up all your favorite tomatoes. Try this caramelized onion and sub gold tomato pasta dish
While the grill is still hot, these Za’atar grilled chicken thighs is another way to enjoy summer mediterranean flavors
Grilled Sweet Peppers with Spicy Eggplant Dip
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor Substitute Blender
Ingredients
Spicy Eggplant Dip
- 2 Eggplants
- 1 Jalapeno use 2 if prefer spicy
- 5 Green Onions
- 3 Garlic Cloves
- 10 Cherry Tomatoes
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil to brush over vegetables for roasting
- 3 Tbsp Sherry Vinegar substitute lemon juice for more flavor
- Salt, Pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
Grilled Sweet Peppers
- 1 Lb Small Sweet Peppers
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 Tbsp Sherry Vinegar
- ½ Tsp Paprika
- Salt and Pepper
Assembly
- Dill optional
- Lemon Zest optional
Instructions
Spicy Eggplant Dip
- preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
- Slice eggplant into quarters. add to baking tray with a deseeded jalapeño, green onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Roast for 25 minutes. Rotate the baking tray halfway through to ensure even cooking
- Remove from oven and transfer to a food processor or blender. Blend until purred. Add the sherry vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Taste as you go.
Grilled Sweet Peppers
- Preheat grill to high. I suggest doing this once the eggplants are done roasting.
- Toss peppers with olive oil, sherry vinegar, and spices. Transfer to a grilling dish. Grill until tender and slightly charred 5-8 minutes. Toss frequently.
Assembly
- Depending on if you are serving this as a side dish or as a main entree, either spoon the eggplant dip into a bowl and leave the peppers on the side. Or add the dip to the bottom of a plate and place the peppers on top.
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