Grilled Vegetable Napoleon Recipe
Description:
Grilled Vegetable Napoleon is a colorful, elegant stack of marinated and grilled vegetables layered with creamy cheese or pesto. It’s a show-stopping dish perfect for summer gatherings, either as a main course or an appetizer. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is vegetarian, packed with antioxidants, and full of smoky, savory flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Grilled Vegetables:
1 large eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
2 zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch strips
1 red bell pepper, cut into quarters
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into quarters
1 red onion, sliced into thick rings
1 portobello mushroom, stem removed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano or Italian herbs
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
For the Filling/Layering:
100g (3.5 oz) goat cheese, ricotta, or vegan cashew cheese
2 tbsp basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto (optional)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare Vegetables:
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Brush all vegetable slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Grill Vegetables:
Grill eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for 3–5 minutes per side or until tender and slightly charred.
Grill portobello mushroom cap for 4–6 minutes per side until juicy and soft.
Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Assemble Napoleon:
Start with a grilled eggplant or mushroom base.
Spread a thin layer of cheese or pesto.
Add a zucchini slice, a bell pepper piece, and a slice of onion.
Repeat layering until about 3–4 layers are stacked.
Drizzle a little balsamic vinegar on top if using.
Secure with a toothpick or small skewer if needed.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve warm or at room temperature.
Time Required:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~220 kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 18g
Dietary Fiber 6g
Fat 15g
Saturated Fat 4g
Sugars 7g
Sodium 350mg
Vitamin C 90% DV
Calcium 10% DV
Iron 8% DV
Note: Nutritional values vary depending on cheese and pesto used.
Questions & Answers
Q1: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Use vegan cheese or a cashew spread, and skip the pesto or use a dairy-free version.
Q2: What can I use instead of a grill?
A: A grill pan or oven broiler works great. Roast veggies at 220°C (425°F) for 20–25 minutes.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, grill the veggies ahead and assemble just before serving. Reheat gently or serve at room temp.
Q4: What else can I add to it?
A: Add a slice of mozzarella or roasted tomato for extra flavor. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a gourmet touch.
Q5: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-fr
ee.