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Sicilian Cooking

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Grilled or Fried Eggplants

(Melanzane alla Griglia o Fritte - Milinciani Arrustuti o Fritti)

Grilled or fried eggplants can be served as part of the appetizers, or as a side dish, or to stuff Italian bread for an exceptional sandwich. It is a very convenient dish because it can be prepared in advance. Just add salt and peppers and enjoy!

  • Serving Size4 to 6
  • Sicilian Appetizers 

    Ingredients

    • 2 medium eggplants
    • ¾ cup olive oil
    • Salt and pepper

    Instructions

    1

    THE EGGPLANTS
    Wash eggplants, remove stalks and slice horizontally with the skin still on, about ½ inch thick. Remove excess skin from first and last slice of each eggplant. Place eggplants in a colander, salt lightly and set aside for 20 minutes. Rinse the sliced eggplant and drain for a few minutes. Gently pat dry with a clean dish towel or paper towels.

    2

    TO GRILL
    Brush both sides with oil and grill the eggplant slices until tender, about 7 minutes on each side or until tender. If a grill is not available, use your oven set to 400 degrees, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes on each side or until tender.

    3

    TO FRY
    Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the eggplants in the hot oil a few slices at a time. Fry 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

    4

    THE SERVING
    Place cooked eggplant in a serving dish and, if you prefer, drizzle with a mixture of olive oil, a hint of fresh garlic and a few drops of vinegar. Garnish with mint leaves and serve immediately.