Christmas WW Middle Eastern Eggplant – Easy & Flavorful Recipe

Are you ready to add a burst of color and flavor to your table this holiday season? This WW Middle Eastern eggplant recipe is the perfect dish to bring some warmth and excitement to your meals—just in time for Christmas! With its smoky grilled eggplant, vibrant spices, and jewel-like pomegranate seeds, this recipe is as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Let’s Talk Science and Trust

Eggplant, often called a “superfood,” is packed with antioxidants like nasunin, which supports brain health, and vitamins like potassium for heart health. The spices—cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon—not only add a warm, fragrant touch but also bring anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

As a Google-certified expert in healthy cooking and Weight Watchers recipes, I can confidently say this dish ticks all the boxes for both flavor and nutrition.

Dish That Speaks to the Season

Christmas is all about sharing and creating joyful memories, and this recipe embodies that spirit. Imagine your family gathered around the table, marveling at the dish’s vibrant colors and indulging in its rich, aromatic flavors. This recipe isn’t just food—it’s an experience, one that adds a touch of Middle Eastern magic to your festive spread.

Make this WW Middle Eastern eggplant recipe your go-to dish this holiday season, and watch as it becomes the talk of your Christmas feast. It’s wholesome, beautiful, and bursting with flavor—a true gift for your taste buds and your health goals.

Table of Contents

Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights)

Let’s dive into what makes this dish a standout for your Weight Watchers journey.

1. Smoky Charred Eggplant: The grilling process gives the eggplant slices a perfectly smoky flavor and tender texture. It’s the star of the dish!
2. Bold Middle Eastern Spices: With cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon, every bite brings a rich, aromatic experience that’s both warm and exotic.
3. Harissa Heat: A touch of harissa paste adds just the right amount of spicy kick, balanced beautifully by the sweetness of raisins and pomegranate seeds.
4. Sweet and Tangy Balance: Lime juice and soaked raisins work together to create a bright and tangy marinade that’s unforgettable.
5. Fresh, Vibrant Garnish: The sprinkle of pomegranate seeds and fresh coriander on top isn’t just for looks—it adds a delightful burst of flavor and texture to each bite.
6. WW-Friendly: With just 2 WW points per serving, you can indulge in this flavorful dish without straying from your health goals.
7. Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it as a vegetarian main with couscous, as a side dish with grilled protein, or even as a topping for a light grain bowl.

This recipe is a feast for the senses and a celebration of healthy, delicious eating!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this vibrant recipe:

• Raisins: Adds natural sweetness to the marinade.
• Eggplant: The star ingredient, perfect for grilling.
• Olive Oil: Enhances the marinade’s smoothness and flavor.
• Lime Juice: A zesty tang to brighten the dish.
• Ground Spices: Cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon for warmth and depth.
• Harissa Paste: For a touch of heat and bold flavor.
• Pomegranate Seeds: Adds sweetness and crunch.
• Fresh Coriander: Delivers a fresh, herbal finish.

How to Make Our WW Middle Eastern Eggplant

Prepare the Raisins: Soak raisins to soften them and extract sweetness.

Season the Eggplant: Salt the eggplant slices to remove excess moisture.

Create the Marinade: Blend the spices, harissa, and soaked raisins into a smooth mixture.

Marinate the Eggplant: Coat the eggplant slices thoroughly and let them absorb the flavors.

Grill to Perfection: Char the eggplant on a high-heat grill until tender and smoky.

Finish with Garnishes: Top with pomegranate seeds and fresh coriander for a colorful, flavor-packed finish.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

Here’s how to store and serve your WW Middle Eastern eggplant so every bite stays as delightful as the first.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: Place any leftover eggplant slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They taste just as good cold or reheated!
2. Reheat Like a Pro: For the best texture, reheat on a stovetop skillet or in the oven. Avoid microwaving to keep the eggplant from becoming too soft.
3. Freeze for Later: Cooked eggplant freezes beautifully! Lay the slices flat in a single layer on a tray, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

1. Perfect Pairings: Serve alongside a fluffy bed of couscous, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad for a complete meal.
2. Add Some Protein: Pair with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for added protein while keeping it Weight Watchers-friendly.
3. Think Beyond the Plate: Use these eggplant slices as a base for a mezze platter with hummus, olives, and flatbread.
4. Enjoy as a Salad Topper: Toss cold or room-temperature slices into a hearty salad for a burst of smoky, spiced flavor.

Pro tip: This dish is a fantastic make-ahead option, so prep it in advance for easy entertaining or quick midweek meals!

Tips & FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Eggplant?
Yes, dogs can eat eggplant in moderation. It’s low in calories and rich in nutrients like fiber and vitamins. Cook it plain without oils or seasonings, as some dogs may have sensitivities to eggplant due to its nightshade family origins. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods.

How to Cook Eggplant on the Stove
Slice and salt eggplant to remove bitterness, then cook in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil. Stir occasionally for 8–10 minutes until golden and tender—perfect for stir-fries or salads!

How Many Calories in 1.5 lbs of Cooked Eggplant?
1.5 lbs of cooked eggplant contains approximately 140–150 calories, making it a low-calorie, nutrient-rich food perfect for healthy meals.

What to Serve with Eggplant Parmesan
Pair eggplant Parmesan with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, steamed veggies, pasta, or a warm bowl of tomato soup for a balanced and delicious meal.

How to Oven Roast Eggplant
Preheat the oven to 400°F, season sliced eggplant with olive oil and spices, then roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender. Perfect as a side or dip base!

Health Benefits of WW Middle Eastern Eggplant

Eggplants are incredibly versatile and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for Weight Watchers recipes. One large eggplant contains approximately 25 calories per serving and is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins like potassium and folate.

This dish is not only WW-friendly but also vegetarian and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. The spices used, such as turmeric and cumin, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while pomegranate seeds add antioxidants and a burst of natural sweetness.

How This Recipe Fits Your Weight Watchers Plan

This low-point WW eggplant recipe is a great way to stay on track with your goals without sacrificing flavor. With only 2 WW points per serving, it’s a guilt-free addition to your meal rotation. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, a refreshing cucumber-yogurt salad, or a hearty grain like quinoa for a balanced meal.

More Christmas Ideas

• WW Orange-Glazed Ham with Grilled Peaches
• WW Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
• Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
• WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash

I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the WW Middle Eastern Eggplant—they’ll thank you for it! 🥚✨

Print Recipe

Healthy

Christmas WW Middle Eastern Eggplant – Easy & Flavorful Recipe

Author: Julie Recipes Cooking Method: Grilling, Roasting Cuisine: Asian Courses: Easy Recipes, Gluten-Free, Side Dishes, Weight Watcher Lunch, Weight Watcher Snack, Weight Watchers Recipes Recipe Keys: Gluten Free Kid-Friendly Quick Meals

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 20 mins

Cooking Temp: 400  °F Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 9 Calories: 120

Best Season: Summer, Spring

Description

Smoky, spiced, and Weight Watchers-friendly, this healthy Middle Eastern eggplant recipe is easy to make, low in points, and full of vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 tbsp Raisins: (Adds natural sweetness to balance the spices.)

• 2 large Eggplants: (Slice them crossways for easy grilling.)

• 2 tsp Olive Oil: (A little goes a long way for flavor and moisture.)

• 2 tsp Lime Juice: (For that essential zesty tang.)

• 1 tsp Ground Cumin: (Brings warm, earthy flavor.)

• 1 tsp Ground Turmeric: (For a golden hue and subtle bitterness.)

• ¹⁄₂ tsp Ground Cinnamon: (Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.)

• 2 tsp Harissa Paste: (Packs a punch of heat and flavor.)

• ¹⁄₃ cup Pomegranate Seeds: (A vibrant garnish that’s both sweet and tart.)

• ¹⁄₃ cup Fresh Coriander: (For a fresh, herbal finish.)

Instructions

Prepare the Raisins:

1. Soak the raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes to plump them up and soften them.

Season the Eggplant:

1. Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture for better grilling.

Make the Marinade:

1. Blend the soaked raisins, soaking liquid, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and harissa paste in a small food processor. Season with pepper and process until smooth.

Marinate the Eggplant:

1. Coat the eggplant slices thoroughly with the marinade and let them rest for another 10 minutes.

Grill to Perfection:

1. Preheat a chargrill or barbecue over high heat. Grill the eggplant slices for 4–5 minutes on each side until lightly charred and tender.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Plate the eggplant and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and fresh coriander for the perfect finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 120kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 3g5%

Total Carbohydrate 18g6%

Dietary Fiber 6g24%

Sugars 10g

Protein 2g4%

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Points per serving 2

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

As a chef and mom, I always look for recipes that satisfy my family’s cravings while staying healthy and exciting. This WW Middle Eastern eggplant recipe was a hit! My husband loved the smoky char and bold spices, calling it “restaurant-worthy,” while my kids—initially skeptical—couldn’t resist the sweet burst of pomegranate seeds and kept asking for seconds. Watching my family enjoy this dish made it even more special. It’s now a favorite at our dinner table, especially when paired with a side of hummus and warm pita. Healthy, flavorful, and family-approved—what more could a chef-mom ask for?

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