Mediterranean-Inspired Eggplant Rolls
This recipe is inspired by the traditional cuisine of the Mediterranean region, where eggplant, tomatoes, and herbs are staples of the diet. The combination of roasted eggplant, creamy feta cheese, and fresh parsley creates a delicious and refreshing filling, while the rolled eggplant slices add a fun and elegant touch to the dish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:( Servings: 4)
Eggplant Slices
2 eggplants
1 tsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt
Couscous Filling
2 cups cauliflower rice (approximately half a head of cauliflower)
1/2 tsp olive oil
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/2 red onion or 1 shallot, finely chopped
1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic
Tahini & Lemon Sauce
2 tbsp tahini
Juice from 1/2 lemon
1 tsp honey or other sweetener
1 clove garlic
Water
Directions:
Heat a grill to medium-high heat or alternatively preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1cm thick slices.
Brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Grill the slices for approximately 3 minutes per side until golden and tender. Alternatively, lay the slices on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 5 minutes per side.
While the eggplant is cooking, heat 1/2 tsp of olive oil in a skillet on medium heat. Add in the cauliflower rice and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Transfer to a bowl and cool in the fridge.
Once cool, stir in the parsley, mint, pine nuts, and chopped onion. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and garlic then pour over the couscous and stir.
In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, and crushed garlic. Add approximately 1 tbsp of water and continue to whisk until a smooth sauce forms.
To assemble, place 1 to 2 spoonfuls of the couscous at the wider end of an eggplant slice and roll up. Repeat with the remaining slices.
To serve, drizzle the rolls with the tahini & lemon sauce and sprinkle with any additional parsley or pine nuts.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
Calories: 200-250
Protein: 10-12g
Fat: 12-15g
Saturated Fat: 3-4g
Cholesterol: 20-25mg
Sodium: 200-250mg
Carbohydrates: 10-12g
Fiber: 4-5g
Sugar: 2-3g