Grilled Eggplant Dip

Grilled Eggplant Dip

Courtesy of Food Network and BOBBY FLAY

Bobby’s Mediterranean-inspired appetizer does require a bit of time, but the end result is so worth it. He fires up the grill to get the eggplant tender and smoky, then purees it with tahini, olive oil, lemon and fresh spices to form a smooth and creamy dip. Serve with warm pita, lavash or fresh veggies for dipping.

Ingredients

1 red bell pepper

1/4 cup canola oil 

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 large eggplant, ends trimmed, sliced lengthwise 1-inch thick 

2 cloves garlic 

1/4 cup tahini 

1/4 cup Greek yogurt 

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 

Grated zest of 1 lemon 

1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

1 teaspoon hot smoked paprika 

1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 

6 pita breads or 3 large lavash, heated on the grill 

Directions

1. Heat a grill to medium. Brush the bell pepper with some of the canola oil and season with salt and pepper. Brush the eggplant slices on both sides with more of the canola oil, season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the eggplant until charred on the first side, about 3 minutes. Turn and continue grilling until tender, another 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the eggplant to a cutting board. Grill the bell pepper, turning occasionally, until charred all over and tender, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let steam while you make the eggplant puree.
3. Smash the garlic cloves, sprinkle them with salt, and mash and smear them to a paste using the side of a knife. Remove the skin from the eggplant and transfer the flesh to a food processor. Add the garlic paste, tahini, yogurt, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, and the lemon zest, oregano and smoked paprika. Process until smooth and thick. Add salt to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl and let sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Peel, seed and dice the bell pepper.
4. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over the dip. Top with the diced peppers and the chopped parsley. Serve with warm pita or lavash.

Recipe

Image Courtesy of Teri Lyn Fisher