Discover the Flavors of Thai Aubergine Salad

Introduction

Welcome to Recipes in Style! I’m Sophie Grace, the culinary mind behind this blog. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that perfectly encapsulates my love for blending classic flavors with modern twists: the Thai Aubergine Salad. This dish is not just a salad; it’s an experience that brings together the vibrant, bold flavors of Thailand with the simplicity and elegance of aubergines.

If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, you’ll appreciate how this salad combines the freshness of herbs with the richness of grilled aubergines. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply seeking a healthy meal option, this salad is sure to impress. Join me as we explore this delightful recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Key Benefits

The Thai Aubergine Salad is brimming with health benefits. Aubergines, also known as eggplants, are low in calories but high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for maintaining a healthy weight. They are also rich in antioxidants, which are essential for combating oxidative stress in the body. Moreover, the fresh herbs used in this salad add a burst of vitamins and minerals that support overall well-being.

Unique Features

What sets this recipe apart is its combination of textures and flavors. The smokiness from the grilled aubergines pairs beautifully with the zesty lime dressing and the aromatic herbs. Additionally, this salad is highly versatile; it can be a standalone dish or an accompaniment to a larger meal. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a showstopper on any dining table.

Ingredients for Thai Aubergine Salad

Main Ingredients

• 2 medium-sized aubergines
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Optional Add-ins

• 1/2 cup sliced cucumber for added crunch
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion for a sharper taste
• Grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by washing the aubergines thoroughly. Pat them dry with a towel.
2. Slice the aubergines into thick rounds, about 1/2 inch each.
3. Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Brush the aubergine slices with sesame oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Cooking Process

1. Place the aubergine slices on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until they are tender and have grill marks.
2. Remove the aubergines from the grill and let them cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cilantro, mint leaves, and crushed peanuts.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, and minced garlic to make the dressing.
5. Once the aubergines are cool enough to handle, chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the mixing bowl.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
7. Top with sliced chili and additional peanuts if desired.
8. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Pro Chef Tips

For perfectly grilled aubergines, make sure your grill is preheated properly. This ensures that the aubergines cook evenly and develop those beautiful char marks. Using a brush to apply sesame oil helps in even distribution, preventing the aubergines from sticking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake is overcrowding the grill pan. This can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure that the aubergine slices are placed with some space between them. Another tip is to avoid over-salting the dressing since the fish sauce and soy sauce already add a salty element to the dish.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Calories and Macros

This Thai Aubergine Salad is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a healthy option. A serving provides approximately 180 calories, 7 grams of protein, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 9 grams of fat. It’s a great low-calorie option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Health Benefits

Aubergines are known for their high antioxidant content, particularly nasunin, which is beneficial for brain health. The herbs such as cilantro and mint are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to a well-rounded nutrient profile. The dish is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari. If you’re looking to make this dish vegan, ensure that the soy sauce or tamari is used instead of fish sauce, and check that any additional protein like tofu is prepared without animal-derived ingredients.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as Thai basil for a unique twist. You can also adjust the level of heat by adding more or fewer chili slices. For a tangier salad, increase the amount of lime juice in the dressing.

If you’re in the mood for another refreshing yet spicy salad, give my Thai Duck Larb recipe a try. It features minced duck, herbs, and a zesty lime dressing a delicious cousin to this aubergine salad.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store and consume it later to maintain the freshness of the salad.

Serving Ideas

This salad is versatile enough to be served as a main dish or a side. Pair it with jasmine rice for a hearty meal or serve it alongside grilled meats or seafood for a complete dining experience.

Want to turn this salad into a full Thai-inspired meal? Pair it with my Thai Stir Fry recipe, a quick and colorful dish bursting with bold flavors and crisp vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about the different types of aubergines you can use, or how to select the freshest ingredients? Here are some common questions:

Conclusion

The Thai Aubergine Salad is a perfect blend of taste, health, and simplicity. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it exemplifies the beauty of Thai cuisine with its combination of fresh herbs, grilled aubergines, and a zesty dressing. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe is sure to impress and delight. Join me at Recipes in Style as we continue to explore the world of delicious, stylish cooking.

Love Thai flavors? Explore my full Thai recipes collection for more dishes that bring bold spices, fresh herbs, and authentic inspiration straight to your kitchen.

For trustworthy guidance on proper vegetable handling and food safety, visit Cleveland Clinic’s nutrition section, where experts explain how to store and prepare produce for optimal freshness.

Bon Appétit!

Discover the Flavors of Thai Aubergine Salad

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2–3 servings 1x

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Description

A vibrant Thai-inspired salad with grilled aubergines, fresh herbs, and a zesty lime dressing. Refreshing, healthy, and full of flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium-sized aubergines
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional: 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
• Optional: 1/4 cup sliced red onion
• Optional: Grilled chicken or shrimp

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Instructions

1. Wash and dry the aubergines thoroughly.
2. Slice into thick rounds, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Brush aubergine slices with sesame oil.
5. Grill slices for about 5 minutes on each side until tender and marked.
6. Let grilled aubergines cool slightly, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
7. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cilantro, mint leaves, and crushed peanuts.
8. In a small bowl, whisk fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, and garlic to make the dressing.
9. Add aubergines to the salad and pour over the dressing.
10. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
11. Top with sliced chili and more peanuts if desired.
12. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking. For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Thai aubergine salad, grilled eggplant, healthy Thai salad, cilantro mint salad, low calorie Thai dish