Grilled eggplant with garlic, thyme, lemon, and olive oil is a healthy dish packed with nutritional benefits that enhance overall health. Eggplant contains antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, which support heart health and reduce inflammation, while garlic boosts the immune system with its sulfur compounds. Thyme adds a distinctive flavor and has antibacterial properties, and lemon improves iron absorption and aids digestion thanks to its vitamin C content. With a touch of olive oil, rich in healthy fatty acids, this dish becomes an ideal choice for balancing nutrition and great taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggplants, sliced thinly
• Olive oil
• 1 lemon
• 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• Fresh black pepper and salt
• Fresh chopped thyme

Preparation Method:

1. Slice the eggplant into thin pieces and set them aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of olive oil with lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium to high heat, and brush it with a little olive oil.
4. Grill the eggplant slices until they turn golden and are cooked on both sides.
5. After grilling, place the eggplant slices in the bowl with the garlic, lemon juice, and spice mixture.
6. Gently toss the ingredients to ensure the slices absorb the flavors without breaking.
7. Serve the grilled eggplant with garlic, thyme, and lemon immediately and enjoy its great taste as a light dish or a side with any meal.

Enjoy preparing and eating this delicious dish!

Note: This recipe is suitable for people who love eggplant and prefer to eat it in different ways, and it's favored by those who enjoy light and healthy foods. It may not be suitable for people who are sensitive to garlic or do not like its taste, or those who do not enjoy sour flavors like lemon juice.

Calories and Nutritional Values:

1. Eggplant (approximately 2 medium-sized units):
   • Calories: Approximately 50 calories per unit (around 100 calories for the entire recipe).
   • Carbohydrates: Around 12 grams.
   • Protein: Around 2 grams.
   • Fat: Around 0.5 grams.

Benefits:

• Rich in fiber, which promotes digestion and helps in feeling full.
• Contains antioxidants that protect cells from thermal damage.
• May help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.

2. Olive Oil (for grilling):
   • Calories: Approximately 40 calories per tablespoon (around 15 calories for the recipe).

Benefits:

• A good source of healthy unsaturated fats, which contribute to reducing harmful cholesterol levels.
• Contains vitamin E and antioxidants that protect cells from thermal damage and promote overall health.

3. Lemon (lemon juice):
   • Calories: Approximately 5 calories per tablespoon of lemon juice (around 5 calories for the recipe).
   • Carbohydrates: Around 2 grams.

Benefits:

• A rich source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and helps reduce skin inflammation and improve tissue health.
• Can aid in improving digestion and nutrient absorption due to its citric acid.

4. Garlic (2 cloves, chopped):
   • Calories: Approximately 10 calories per clove.
   • Carbohydrates: Around 2 grams.
   • Protein: Around 0.5 grams.

Benefits:

• Contains compounds that help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
• Has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which help support the immune system and protect against diseases.

Note: These estimates are based on the quantities generally used. For more accurate details on nutritional values, it’s recommended to refer to reliable sources or online calorie counting tools.