Grilled Vegetables with Goat Cheese Sauce

Grilled vegetables with goat cheese sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer barbecues or cozy indoor grilling. This colorful medley of zucchini, eggplant, red and yellow peppers is enhanced by a fragrant mix of spices. The dish is further complemented by a creamy and tangy goat cheese sauce, enriched with Greek yogurt, garlic, and peanuts for a delightful contrast in textures. This versatile recipe can be an excellent appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. It's perfect for outdoor gatherings or intimate indoor meals. The balance of grilled flavors and creamy sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience, making it an appealing option for vegetarians and cheese lovers alike. In addition to its delicious taste, this dish is also packed with nutrients from the fresh vegetables and healthy fats from the nuts. Experiment with different variations to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and healthy meal, this dish offers a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication. Serve it alongside fresh greens or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

2 zucchinis
1 eggplant
1 red bell pepper
1 yellow bell pepper

Spices:

Hmeli-suneli
Salt
Freshly ground pepper

Sauce:

200g Greek yogurt
200g soft goat cheese
100g peanuts
2-3 cloves of garlic
Salt
Freshly ground pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Wash and Prepare Vegetables: Rinse the zucchini, eggplant, and peppers thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry with a towel.
Slice the Vegetables: Slice the zucchinis and eggplant into thick, even rounds. Cut the peppers into large chunks, ensuring all pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Season the Vegetables: Place all the sliced vegetables into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with hmeli-suneli, then add a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste. Toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Grill the Vegetables: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Arrange the seasoned vegetables on the grill in a single layer. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are tender and have beautiful grill marks. Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese and Greek yogurt. Using a fork, mash them together until smooth and well mixed.
Add Flavor to the Sauce: Finely chop the garlic cloves and peanuts. Stir them into the cheese mixture. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Serve the Vegetables: Transfer the grilled vegetables to a serving plate. Serve the sauce in a separate bowl or drizzle it over the vegetables.
Enjoy: Serve your grilled vegetables warm with the savory goat cheese sauce on the side. Enjoy as a standalone dish or pair with your favorite main course.

Tips

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the vegetables while grilling to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Sauce Variations: For a vegan alternative, replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese substitute.
Peanut Allergies: Substitute peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit entirely for nut-free diets.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 10g
Fats: 15g
Carbs: 20g

Variations

Herbal Boost: Add fresh basil or mint to the sauce for extra flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the sauce for a spicy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a light green salad for a refreshing meal.
Serve alongside crusty bread or pita to soak up the sauce flavors.
Complement with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier option.

Best Places

Chez Panisse Cafe - Known for its emphasis on fresh, local produce. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
Noma - Offers innovative vegetable dishes in a unique setting. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Ottolenghi - Famous for vibrant salads and grilled vegetables. Location: 287 Upper Street, London, UK.
Rustic Canyon - Celebrated for seasonal vegetable-focused cuisine. Location: 1119 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, USA.
ABC Kitchen - Focuses on local and organic ingredients. Location: 35 E 18th St, New York, USA.
Gjelina - Acclaimed for wood-fired veggies. Location: 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, USA.
Farm Spirit - Plant-based fine dining experience. Location: 1403 SE Belmont St, Portland, USA.
Vedge - Offers creative vegan dishes from locally sourced ingredients. Location: 1221 Locust St, Philadelphia, USA.
Le Bernardin - Features sophisticated vegetable dishes. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
Eleven Madison Park - Offers a luxurious vegetable menu. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York, USA.