Prepare the Marinade:
Begin by preparing the marinade for the paneer. In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and a selection of spices. Whisk it all together until smooth and well-blended. Let this mixture sit for a minute or two to allow the flavors to combine. (Time taken: 3-4 minutes)
Prepare the Paneer:
Cut the paneer into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Make sure the pieces are thick enough to hold up on the grill. You can use store-bought or homemade paneer for this step. (Time taken: 2 minutes)
Marinate the Paneer:
Now, place the paneer pieces into the marinade and coat them evenly. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure each piece is well-covered. Once all the pieces are coated, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours. (Time taken: 30 minutes - 2 hours)
Preheat the Grill:
While the paneer marinates, preheat your grill or grilling pan on medium heat. Make sure it's hot enough to give the paneer a nice sear. If you're using a grill, you can lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Grill the Paneer:
Once the grill is hot, arrange the marinated paneer pieces on the grill. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden and slightly charred. Be sure not to overcook to keep the paneer soft inside. Flip carefully with tongs or a spatula. (Time taken: 8 minutes)
Serve the Garlic Grilled Paneer:
Once the paneer is beautifully grilled, remove it from the grill and arrange it on a serving plate. Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, chopped coriander, or a sprinkle of chaat masala, if desired. Serve hot with naan or a refreshing side salad. (Time taken: 2 minutes)
Total Time: 50-75 minutes (including marination time)