Grilled Eggplant Sandwiches

Peel your eggplant, if you like, and slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Brush with some olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill.

At the same time, brush some 1/2-inch thick slices of good artisan bread with olive oil and grill those, too.

While the bread and eggplant are grilling, stir together a fresh herb relish using whatever herbs you have available, a little shallot perhaps, some finely chopped olives and a few toasted nuts. Stir together with a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

When you’re ready to assemble your sandwiches, arrange the eggplant slices on the grilled bread and top with a spoonful or two of your herb dressing. You could add some mixed greens or a little fresh local mozzarella or feta if you like as well.