Smoky Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Skewers with Garlic Aioli
Charred vegetables with a smoky flavor, served with a zesty garlic aioli for a light yet satisfying side. This mediterranean-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes blends medium, cut into 1-inch cubes eggplant, medium, cut into 1-inch cubes zucchini, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 2 medium, cut into 1-inch cubes eggplant
- 2 medium, cut into 1-inch cubes zucchini
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves, minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove, minced garlic
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat grill to medium-high (375°F). Thread eggplant and zucchini cubes onto skewers, alternating vegetables.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 3: Brush the oil mixture generously over skewers, coating all vegetable pieces.
- Step 4: Place skewers on preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until vegetables are tender and have char marks.
- Step 5: While vegetables grill, prepare aioli: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tbsp lemon juice, mixing until smooth.
- Step 6: Serve grilled skewers immediately with aioli for dipping.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Smoky Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Skewers with Garlic Aioli take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Smoky Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Skewers with Garlic Aioli?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Smoky Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Skewers with Garlic Aioli?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Smoky Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Skewers with Garlic Aioli for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Smoky Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Skewers with Garlic Aioli vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
- ★☆☆☆☆
Followed exactly and it was underwhelming. Maybe my expectations were too high.
