Grilled Whole Eggplant With Harissa Vinaigrette

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Prepare a charcoal fire in a grill. Let coals cool to medium heat (coals should be covered with ash and glowing red with no black remaining).

   Step 2

   Grill eggplant directly on coals, turning occasionally, until skin is blackened and flesh has collapsed, 15–20 minutes. (Alternatively, grill on the grate of a gas or charcoal grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, 20–25 minutes.) Transfer to a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet and let cool slightly.

   Step 3

   Carefully remove skin from eggplant, leaving stem intact. Season on all sides with 1/2 tsp. salt. Let sit on rack until excess water is drained, 20–30 minutes.

   Step 4

   Whisk oil, lemon juice, harissa, honey, and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt in a small bowl to combine.

   Step 5

   Using a paring knife, make several slits down length of eggplant on each side. Transfer to a plate and pour dressing over. Top with parsley and serve with bread alongside.

   Step 6

   Do Ahead: Eggplant (without parsley) can be dressed 8 hours ahead. Let sit at room temperature up to 4 hours. Chill, if waiting longer, and let sit at room temperature 1 hour before serving.