5 Dishes to Remind You That Eggplant Is Delicious

You’ll go to these recipes again and again for as long as it’s eggplant season

Eggplant dip. Photo: Aya Brackett

Grilled eggplant is a summer favorite for good reason: It’s one of the most satisfying of summer vegetables to cook and eat. And while eggplant shines when it’s prepared on a grill, you won’t want to miss out on these eggplant meatballs, either. Read on for more.

Grilled or Roasted Eggplant Dip

Makes: 6 to 8 servings
Time: About 1 hour, largely unattended

There is nothing like grilled eggplant, and its smoky flavor makes a sensational dip; if you grill or roast a red pepper at the same time, so much the better. Serve with bread or crackers, or use as a sandwich spread.

Ingredients

• 2 medium or 4 small eggplant, about 1 pound
• 1 red bell pepper (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice, or more as needed
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ½ teaspoon chopped garlic, or to taste
• Salt and pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

1. Turn the broiler on and position the rack about 4 inches below the heat…