Mediterranean Grilled Eggplant with Tahini Sauce & Pomegranate
This Mediterranean dish features smoky grilled eggplant topped with creamy tahini sauce, fresh herbs, and vibrant pomegranate seeds. The combination of warm, charred eggplant and cool, tangy tahini creates a perfect balance of flavor. It’s healthy, vegan, and perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or light lunch.
⏱️ Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Eggplant
2 large eggplants (cut into thick slices or long strips)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika (optional, non-spicy version skip or reduce)
For the Tahini Sauce
3 tbsp tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, grated
3–4 tbsp cold water (to thin)
Salt to taste
For Topping
¼ cup pomegranate seeds
2 tbsp chopped parsley or mint
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
A drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplant
Slice eggplants into thick rounds or long strips.
Brush both sides with olive oil.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Grill the Eggplant
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill on medium-high.
Grill eggplant pieces 4–5 minutes per side until charred and tender.
Remove and place on a serving plate.
3. Make the Tahini Sauce
Whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
Add cold water little by little until the sauce becomes smooth and pourable.
4. Assemble the Dish
Arrange grilled eggplant on a dish.
Drizzle generously with tahini sauce.
Sprinkle pomegranate seeds and herbs.
Finish with sesame seeds and a small drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
If the eggplant absorbs too much oil, lightly salt slices for 10 mins, then rinse and pat dry.
Add yogurt to the tahini sauce for extra creaminess.
Roast instead of grill by baking at 220°C (425°F) for 25 minutes.
️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm pita or flatbread
Pair with grilled chicken
Add over rice or quinoa bowl
Serve as a mezze platter with hummus
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180–220
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 13g
Fiber: 6g