Hollandaise and Grilled Eggplant for a Mediterranean-inspired Meal

Enjoy a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal with the rich, creamy flavor of hollandaise sauce paired with the smoky, tender grilled eggplant. This combination highlights fresh ingredients and simple preparation methods common in Mediterranean cuisine.

Ingredients Needed

  • 2 large eggplants
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • For the hollandaise sauce:
    • 3 egg yolks
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Preparation Steps

Start by preparing the eggplant. Slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds and brush with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Grill the eggplant slices for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and set aside.

Meanwhile, prepare the hollandaise sauce. Fill a small saucepan with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice. Place the bowl over the simmering water, ensuring it does not touch the water.

Whisk constantly until the mixture thickens slightly. Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while whisking continuously. Remove from heat and season with a pinch of cayenne pepper if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange the grilled eggplant slices on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with warm hollandaise sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added touch of flavor and color.

This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or grilled fish for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal. The combination of smoky eggplant and rich hollandaise offers a delightful balance of flavors.