Middle Eastern Za'atar Grilled Eggplant Rolls

Name: Middle Eastern Za'atar Grilled Eggplant Rolls
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 2 large eggplants; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons za'atar spice mix; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint; 1 clove garlic; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds; 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

Deliciously seasoned and grilled eggplant rolls filled with a creamy cheese mixture

These succulent eggplant rolls are infused with aromatic za’atar and filled with a luscious mixture of cheeses, herbs, and spices, capturing the vibrant flavors of the Middle East.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Za'atar Eggplant

2 large eggplants

sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons za'atar spice mix

1 teaspoon salt

For the Cheese Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

1 clove garlic

minced

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping

1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

Preparation

Preparing the Eggplants

Lay and salt eggplant slices

Lay eggplant slices on a clean towel and sprinkle with salt.

Let eggplants release moisture

Let them sit for 15 minutes to release moisture.

Dry the eggplant slices

Pat dry with paper towels.

Make sure the eggplant slices are dry before grilling to achieve perfect grill marks.

Preparing the Cheese Filling

Combine ingredients

In a bowl, combine ricotta, feta, mint, garlic, and black pepper.

Mix filling

Mix until the filling is smooth and well incorporated.

Chill the filling

Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Cooking Process

Grilling the Eggplant

Preheat your grill to medium-high and brush each eggplant slice with olive oil and za'atar mix. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until tender.

Using fresh za'atar spice mix elevates the flavor profile significantly.

Rolling the Eggplants

Allow eggplant slices to cool slightly, then place a tablespoon of cheese filling on one end and roll tightly.

Final Touch

Secure the rolls with a toothpick if needed and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and pine nuts before serving.

Plating & Serving