Short Description

A vibrant Mediterranean-style dish layered with grilled eggplant, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil pesto, perfect for a light yet flavorful appetizer or side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Eggplant Caprese Stack is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a healthy yet indulgent dish. Combining the smokiness of grilled eggplant with the creamy richness of mozzarella and the zesty freshness of basil pesto, it delivers complex flavors with minimal effort. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion—whether it’s a summer dinner party or a quick weekday meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 medium eggplants, sliced into ½ inch rounds
3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

directions

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Grill eggplant slices for about 3–4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and they are tender.
On a clean plate, begin stacking: one slice of grilled eggplant, a slice of tomato, a slice of mozzarella, and a spoonful of pesto.
Repeat the layers, finishing with a top eggplant slice.
Garnish each stack with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.
Serve immediately while warm or slightly cooled.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 210 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace mozzarella with a dairy-free alternative such as cashew cheese or almond-based mozzarella.
Spicy Kick: Add a thin slice of grilled jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to each layer.
Balsamic Twist: Drizzle a reduction of balsamic vinegar over the finished stacks for added tang.
Protein Boost: Include a slice of grilled tofu or tempeh for additional protein.
Roasted Version: Instead of grilling, roast the eggplant slices in the oven for a slightly sweeter, caramelized flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover stacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or warm gently in a skillet over low heat. It’s also delicious when served cold as a salad-style appetizer.

FAQs

How do I keep the eggplant from getting soggy?

Slice the eggplant and sprinkle it with salt, letting it sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture before grilling.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the eggplant and prepare the pesto a day in advance. Assemble the stacks just before serving for the best texture.

Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?

Not as written, but you can substitute the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative to make it fully plant-based.

What type of mozzarella works best?

Fresh mozzarella, such as mozzarella di bufala or bocconcini, offers the best flavor and texture for this dish.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, quality store-bought pesto works well, though homemade pesto will offer fresher flavor.

What can I serve with this?

It pairs well with a light green salad, crusty bread, or as a side to grilled proteins like chicken or fish.

Can I bake the eggplant instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Roast the eggplant slices at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive individuals.

How do I prevent the stacks from toppling over?

Cut the eggplant and tomato slices evenly and keep the stacks to two or three layers for better stability.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the eggplant and mozzarella can change significantly when thawed.

Conclusion

Grilled Eggplant Caprese Stack with Pesto is a refreshing and visually stunning dish that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for both casual meals and elegant gatherings. Enjoy the harmony of fresh ingredients and savory flavors in every bite.

Grilled Eggplant Caprese Stack with Pesto

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Author: Emma Delaney
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegetarian

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