After the sweet and easy success of our Meatless Monday Meal of Mock Eggplant Parmesan, we went back to Trader Joe’s and picked up another package! (I almost hesitate to admit this to you!)  We thought that the mock Eggplant Parmesan was just delicious and we made, yes, another one today for lunch. OK just to be super clear, the product that I am raving about is Trader Joe’s Misto alla Grigoia Marinated Grilled Eggplant & Zucchini.

Trader Joe's Grilled Veg

The pieces of grilled vegetables are tender, but not overcooked and mushy. They also have a slight smoky/grilled flavor that we really enjoyed.

But while I was creating this yummy meal, I started to read the package and think about other ways that these wonderful grilled vegetables could be used….

1. First I was thinking of slicing up the veggies and tossing them with hot pasta and sauce.  I could even do this with the cold leftovers of the mock Eggplant Parmesan.

2. Then I was like Mock, Noodle-Free Lasagna could also be made with these grilled veggies. Next time I will pick up a container of ricotta cheese (or use crumbled soft tofu) and add spoonfuls as I layer the pasta sauce and grilled veggies.

3. I also thought these veggies would be good with some grilled meats (I was thinking of fish or chicken here, but lamb would also be great). A sorta “cheaters” way to serve grilled vegetables.

4. Finally what about slicing them up into thin strips and adding them to a cold pasta salad? I was thinking of that one I made earlier in the month with the Olive Tapanade? I bet the marinade and the “grilled” flavor would really add to a pasta salad.

However you serve them, they truly would make a wonderful addition to your meal.

Have you tried this product? What did you think?