Name: Eggplant and Smoked-Gouda Open-Faced Grilled Sandwiches
Cook time: 1 1/4 hr
Total time: 1 1/4 hr
Yield: Makes 4 light main-course servings
Ingredients: 1 lb tomatoes, finely chopped (2 1/2 cups); 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley; 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon white-wine vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3/4 teaspoons salt; 1 (8-oz) piece smoked cheese such as Gouda, mozzarella, or scamorza; 4 (3/4-inch-thick) slices country-style bread (from an 8-inch round loaf); 2 (1-lb) eggplants

Image may contain Plant Food Vegetable Pork and Eggplant

Eggplant and Smoked-Gouda Open-Faced Grilled SandwichesRomulo Yanes

The components of these sandwiches are relatively straightforward, but the results are a revelation. And with gooey melted cheese, tender slabs of eggplant, and a bright tomato-parsley salsa, they're a wonderful main course option for vegetarians and meat eaters alike.

Cooks' notes:

· If you can't grill outdoors, bread and eggplant can be cooked in 2 batches on a lightly oiled well-seasoned large (2-burner) ridged grill pan over moderate heat. Grill eggplant, turning occasionally, 10 to 13 minutes, then top with cheese. Transfer eggplant to a large baking sheet and broil about 3 inches from preheated broiler until cheese is just melted, about 1 minute. · Tomato mixture can be made 30 minutes ahead and kept at room temperature.

Recipe notes

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Our go-to banana bread recipe is moist, nutty, and incredibly easy to make.

Super Seedy Power Cookies

As energizing as an energy bar, with a much simpler ingredient list.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Meatball Tagine

Warming harissa and cinnamon, briny olives, and sweet dried fruit make up the flavorful base for this weeknight-friendly take on tagine.