Chargrilled Eggplant & Tomato Salad

This Chargrilled Eggplant & Tomato Salad is a fresh, colourful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for summer entertaining, family barbecues or a healthy everyday meal. Made with grilled eggplant, juicy tomatoes, fresh parsley and extra virgin olive oil, it’s naturally rich in fibre and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavours.

Whether you’re following a healthy eating plan or looking for nutritious meal ideas after bariatric surgery, this simple salad is quick to prepare and can easily be served alongside lean grilled chicken, fish or other high-protein meals.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Serves: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthways into thick slices
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 350g mixed medley tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Olive oil cooking spray
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Method

1. Preheat a barbecue grill, grill pan or chargrill over high heat.
2. Lightly spray both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil cooking spray.
3. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over both sides of each slice.
4. Cook the eggplant in batches for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
5. Arrange the cooked eggplant on a serving platter.
6. Scatter the halved tomatoes and fresh parsley over the eggplant.
7. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with freshly ground black pepper if desired.
8. Serve immediately or allow the salad to cool slightly before serving.

Why This Salad Is a Healthy Choice

This vegetable-based salad is naturally low in refined carbohydrates while providing fibre, vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables.

• Rich in dietary fibre
• Contains heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil
• Packed with antioxidants from tomatoes and parsley
• Suitable as a healthy side dish
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Perfect for summer meals and barbecues

Serving Suggestions

For a balanced meal, serve this salad with lean sources of protein such as:

• Grilled chicken breast
• Grilled fish or salmon
• Lean steak
• Turkey breast
• Low-fat grilled halloumi (where appropriate)

Adding a source of lean protein can help create a more satisfying and nutritionally balanced meal.

Bariatric Nutrition Tips

If you have undergone gastric sleeve, gastric bypass or mini gastric bypass surgery, vegetables can become an important part of a balanced diet once your healthcare team advises they are appropriate for your stage of recovery.

• Prioritise your protein before vegetables.
• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly.
• Begin with small portions.
• Avoid adding creamy dressings or high-calorie sauces.
• Adjust the seasoning if spicy foods are not well tolerated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes. Grill the eggplant ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add the tomatoes, parsley and olive oil just before serving for the freshest flavour.

Can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely. Reduce the Cajun seasoning or substitute it with paprika, Italian herbs or a mild seasoning blend.

Is eggplant healthy?

Eggplant is naturally rich in fibre and antioxidants while being relatively low in calories, making it a nutritious addition to a healthy eating plan.

Important Information

This recipe is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace personalised dietary advice. Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery should always follow the recommendations provided by their surgeon and accredited practising dietitian.

Need Personalised Weight Loss Advice?

If you’re considering weight loss surgery or would like personalised nutrition advice after bariatric surgery, Brisbane Obesity Clinic is here to help.

Brisbane Obesity Clinic
Evan Thomson Building
13/24 Chasely Street
Auchenflower QLD 4066

Phone: (07) 3871 2277
Email: reception@brisbaneobesityclinic.com.au