Grilled Aubergine and Feta Salad

Images of some recipes make my mouth water straight away. Some make me wonder 'Is it really going to work?' I've learnt to put in my food only the ingredients that I like. For example, I'm not a fan of fresh coriander, so no matter how mind-blowing all the other components may be, I know I'm not gonna like it. Simple as that. 

Here, I'm perfectly happy. I love all the veggies, but I know some people may not be so fond of the aubergine, so leave it out or grill another veggie instead (a courgette or red pepper would be a great substitute). Also, I really wanted to use some grilled goat cheese in this recipe as I think it would go extremely well with this combo. But again, for some reason, I just can't eat it.... So, I've used feta instead which really does make a great addition to this salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 aubergine
• 3/4 head of round or curly lettuce
• 2 tomatoes
• 1/3 a red pointed pepper
• 75 g feta cheese
• salt and pepper, to season
• coconut oil, for grilling

For the dressing:

• 1 clove of garlic, pressed
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• a pinch of salt
• a generous grind of pepper

Preparation:

1. Cut the aubergine into 0,5 cm slices and lay on a medium tray lined with some baking parchment. Sprinkle with salt and brush each slice with some melted coconut oil. Place in a pre-heated oven (200° C) and grill for 10 minutes. Then, take them out and flip over. Place the feta cut into 2 cm cubes or slices and sprinkle with some pepper. Pop the tray back into the oven and grill for further 8-10 minutes.
2. In the meantime, wash the lettuce, tear and divide between two plates.
3. Cut the tomatoes and pepper and arrange on the plates.
4. In a bowl, put all the dressing ingredients and stir well to combine.
5. Remove the aubergine slices from the oven and arrange on the salad leaves. Do the same with the grilled feta which has slightly melted.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad, serve and enjoy :)