Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant & Tomato Salad with Garlic Yogurt and Toasted Walnuts
Smoky grilled eggplant and juicy cherry tomatoes are tossed with olive oil, herbs, and lemon, then served over a swoosh of garlic yogurt and topped with toasted walnuts and mint. It’s silky, crunchy, savory, and fresh — a modern Mediterranean masterpiece that works as a main or side.
⏱️ Time Required:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Salad:
1 large eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon ground cumin or Za’atar (optional)
Garlic Yogurt Base:
¾ cup Greek yogurt
1 small garlic clove, finely grated
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt and pepper
Toppings:
¼ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint or parsley, chopped
Optional: drizzle of pomegranate molasses or balsamic glaze
Instructions:
1. Prepare the garlic yogurt:
Mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to use.
2. Grill the eggplant & tomatoes:
Brush eggplant slices with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cumin (if using).
Grill or pan-fry eggplant slices for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and tender.
Sauté or grill cherry tomatoes until slightly blistered and juicy (2–3 minutes).
3. Toast the walnuts:
In a dry skillet, toast walnuts for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Chop coarsely.
4. Assemble the dish:
On a large serving plate, spread a layer of garlic yogurt.
Top with grilled eggplant and tomatoes.
Sprinkle with toasted walnuts and fresh mint.
Drizzle with extra olive oil and (optional) pomegranate molasses or balsamic.
Why This Recipe Shines:
- Silky eggplant, cool creamy yogurt, crunchy nuts, and fresh herbs — a Mediterranean flavor bomb
- Works as a starter, side, or elegant vegetarian main
- Easy to make but feels restaurant-worthy
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I roast the eggplant instead of grilling?
A: Yes! Roast slices at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes until tender and browned.
Q: Can I use something other than yogurt?
A: Try labneh for extra tang or plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Q: What can I serve with this?
A: Warm pita, herbed couscous, or grilled chicken/shrimp
Nutritional Information
Calories: 310
Protein: 8g
Fat: 21g
Carbs: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: ~320mg