Grilled Caponata

A vibrant medley of grilled eggplant, peppers, onions, and tomatoes tossed with a garlicky balsamic vinaigrette and topped with olives, capers, and toasted pine nuts — a bold, rustic dish bursting with Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients
3 small eggplants
1 pound ripe plum tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, halved and cored
1 yellow bell pepper, halved and cored
1 medium sweet onion, peeled
1 large head of garlic
1 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
¼ cup salted capers, rinsed and chopped
â…“ cup Kalamata olives, chopped
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
¼ cup lightly toasted pine nuts
Instructions
Preheat Grill:
Heat your grill to medium.Prep the Vegetables:
Slice the onion crosswise into 1½-inch rounds and secure with skewers to keep them intact. Trim the eggplants and slice into 1-inch thick rounds.Roast the Garlic:
Wrap the whole head of garlic in foil and place on the grill. Cook for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until softened and golden.Grill the Veggies:
Place the peppers on the grill cut side down. Add onions and tomatoes. Grill, brushing occasionally with ½ cup of the olive oil and keeping the lid closed as much as possible.
Grill for about 15 minutes, turning once, until tender and charred.
Grill the eggplant slices until browned and tender, about 10–15 minutes total.
Steam the Peppers:
Transfer grilled peppers to a plate and cover tightly with plastic wrap to steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the charred skin once cooled.Chop and Combine:
Dice the eggplant, tomatoes, onions, and peeled peppers into 1-inch pieces. Place in a large mixing bowl.Make the Dressing:
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into a small bowl. Whisk in the balsamic vinegar, remaining ½ cup olive oil, capers, olives, salt, pepper, and fresh basil.Assemble the Dish:
Pour the dressing over the chopped grilled vegetables and toss gently to combine. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts just before serving.
- Pro Tip
Steam the grilled peppers in plastic wrap or a sealed container right after grilling — this loosens the skin and makes peeling a breeze, while also enhancing their sweetness. This antipasto can be made a day ahead; the flavors only deepen after marinating overnight in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
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