Healthy Tomato and Eggplant Salad Recipe

This tomato and eggplant salad is a healthy and delicious Mediterranean-inspired recipe with juicy tomatoes, pan-fried or grilled eggplant, arugula, quinoa, fresh herbs - and plenty of flavor! Omit the quinoa to lower the carb and make it keto friendly.

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This Grilled Eggplant Salad is a Must Make

"Eggplant is such a versatile vegetable, and it just doesn't get enough attention. It has wonderful flavor, especially when grilled, pan-fried, or roasted. I think you'll love it in this salad."

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean diet typically includes mostly vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, mainly olive oil. This recipe is made up primarily of fresh vegetables, fresh herbs, olive oil, and seasoning, making it the perfect dish to enjoy.

Convenient

Fire up the grill and prepare your eggplant. Don't feel like grilling? No worries! You can easily do this in a saute pan indoors as well. Mix up the salad and dressing in a bowl, top off your eggplant "filet, " and enjoy it guilt-free!

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Healthy

This eggplant salad is vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and Whole30! Omit the quinoa, and it is a great keto, low-carb meal as well. It's also perfect if you're following a Mediterranean diet.

Grilled Eggplant Salad Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to make tomato and eggplant salad:

• Large Eggplant - eggplant is a mild flavor comparable to zucchini or summer squash. It is spongey in texture when raw, but it is best enjoyed when cooked.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil - you can substitute your preferred oil.
• Kosher Salt
• Ground Black Pepper
• Arugula - this green is loved for its slightly peppery flavor.
• Roma or Cherry Tomatoes - I use either one I have on hand. You could also cut a larger tomato into one inch bites.
• Cooked Quinoa - This healthy grain is an excellent substitute for rice! High in fiber and protein, plus it's gluten-free. If following a low carb or keto diet, do not use.
• Parmesan Cheese - use plant-based or dairy parmesan cheese.
• Fresh Parsley - fresh parsley is best for the color and flavor.
• Fresh Dill - fresh dill is best for the flavor of this fresh salad.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil - you can substitute your preferred oil.
• Apple Cider Vinegar - vinegar is great for a salad dressing for its bright, tangy flavor. Apple cider vinegar adds a little sweetness to it, also!
• Lemon Juice - fresh lemon juice always has the best flavor.

How To Make Eggplant Salad

Grill or Pan Fry the Eggplant

Generously brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Preheat a grill pan, grill, or skillet to medium-high heat. Place eggplant slices on the pan or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Work in batches if needed. Set eggplant aside to cool slightly.

Salad Dressing

Mix the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and set aside.

Assemble The Salad

Place quinoa (if adding), arugula, tomatoes, and eggplant on a salad plate or bowl and top with parsley, dill, and parmesan cheese.

Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle with salad dressing and serve immediately. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.