Warm Eggplant Salad

Ingredients

• pound long Chinese eggplants
• teaspoon sItalian seasoning, divided
• salt to taste
• tablespoon solive oil, divided
• medium red bell pepper
• teaspoon swhite sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• large clove garlic, crushed
• tablespoon scream cheese, softened
• tablespoon chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Trim eggplants and cut in half if very long. Cut lengthwise into 1/4 inch slices. Sprinkle a little Italian seasoning and salt on both sides of each slice.
2. Preheat a griddle or heavy pan over high heat. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over eggplant slices and cook until slightly charred, about 30 seconds per side.
3. Core bell pepper and cut into thin slices. Season with salt. Use the same griddle or pan to cook until slightly charred, about 30 seconds per side.
4. Prepare dressing by mixing remaining olive oil, sugar, balsamic vinegar, and garlic in a small bowl. Stir in remaining Italian seasoning.
5. Layer 1/2 of the eggplant slices on a plate. Dot with cream cheese. Cover with bell peppers and remaining cream cheese. Top with remaining eggplant. Drizzle dressing over the salad. Garnish with cilantro. Serve warm, mixing right before serving.

Tips

If you use another type of eggplant, season with salt and let stand for about 20 minutes to draw out any bitterness. Rinse off the salt before proceeding with the recipe.