Market Umbrella is an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3), based in New Orleans, whose mission is to cultivate the power of farmers markets to drive economic and community health in the region. Market Umbrella has operated the Crescent City Farmers Markets (CCFM) since 1995.
Recipe
Grilled Zucchini and Eggplant with Basil Vinaigrette
This week we bring you a simple recipe for the grill, using the delicious zucchini and eggplant that are featured at markets right now. This recipe also features fresh basil; consider picking some basil plant starts up at market so you can always have fresh basil on hand in the coming weeks.
Ingredients
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped, or 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup olive oil, divided
- 1 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1 large eggplant (about 1 lb.), cut crosswise into 3/4-in.-thick slices
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb.), halved crosswise and cut lengthwise into 3/4-in.- thick slices
Directions
Preheat grill to medium (400°F). Combine the shallot and red wine vinegar in the bowl of a mini food processor. Let stand 5 minutes. Add the honey, basil, and 1/4 cup of the olive oil, and process until mixture is thickened, about 10 seconds. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper. Set aside until ready to serve.
Brush eggplant and zucchini slices with remaining 1/4 cup olive oil, and sprinkle with remaining 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Grill eggplant and zucchini slices, cover with grill lid, until slightly charred and tender, 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Transfer to a platter. Spoon 1/2 cup vinaigrette over vegetables.
Yields: 4 servings
This recipe is adapted from southernliving.com/recipes/grilled-zucchini-and-eggplant-with-basil-vinaigrette-recipe
About Us
The Crescent City Farmers Market operates weekly year-round throughout New Orleans. The CCFM hosts 70+ local small farmers, fishers, and food producers, and more than 150,000 shoppers annually.