GRILLED EGGPLANT PEPPER SANDWICHES

Grilled Eggplant Pepper Sandwiches image

I love eggplant! These savory, filling sandwiches give the vegetable new meaning. One bite, and you're hooked. Even my grandchildren love them. -Paula Marchesi, Lenhartsville, Pennsylvania

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 1h5m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

1/2 cup pitted ripe olives
2 to 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/8 teaspoon salt
Dash pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
SANDWICHES:
1/4 cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large eggplant, cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch slices
2 large sweet red peppers, quartered
8 slices firm white bread (1/2 inch thick)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

Steps:

Place the first five ingredients in a food processor; cover and process until pureed. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream; process until blended. Set aside., For sandwiches, in a small bowl, combine the oil, garlic, pepper and salt; brush over eggplant and red peppers. Prepare grill for indirect heat, using a drip pan. Arrange vegetables on a grilling grid; place on a grill rack over drip pan., Grill, covered, over indirect medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until tender. Remove and keep warm. Grill bread over medium heat 1-2 minutes on each side or until toasted., Spread olive mixture over toast. Top four slices with vegetables and basil; top with remaining toast.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 463 calories, Fat 31g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 844mg sodium, Carbohydrate 44g carbohydrate (12g sugars, Fiber 8g fiber), Protein 7g protein.