Mini Eggplant with Tahini Yogurt, Walnuts and Basil

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, tahini and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, gently toss together the walnuts, garlic, chopped basil, red pepper flakes and a pinch of salt with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large bowl, toss the halved eggplant with the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium high heat. Cook the eggplant, turning occasionally to avoid burning. Cook until eggplant are soft and nicely charred on both sides. (Cooking time varies with the thickness of the eggplant. Lower heat if charring is happening too quickly before eggplant becomes soft.)

Step 4

To serve, spoon and spread some tahini-yogurt onto a plate. Top with the cooked eggplant and then the walnut mixture. Garnish with more fresh, whole basil leaves.