This Baked Eggplant and Vegetable Casserole is a delightful, hearty dish perfect for a satisfying meal. Packed with flavorful vegetables and topped with melted cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 35-45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 onion
- Olive oil
- 1 green sweet pepper
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 tomato
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Paprika, to taste
- 100 grams cheese, grated
Directions
Prep the Eggplants:
- Cut and Soak:
- Cut the eggplants into cubes and place them in a bowl.
- Fill the bowl with water to soak the eggplant cubes; this helps remove any bitterness.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Sauté Onions and Peppers:
- Finely chop the onion and heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and fry for about 2 minutes.
- Dice the green sweet pepper and add it to the skillet with the onion. Continue to fry for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Tomato:
- Finely chop the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet, frying them with the other vegetables.
- Dice the tomato and add it to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook the Eggplant:
- Add and Season:
- Drain the eggplant cubes and add them to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender.
- Stir in the tomato paste, chopped basil, and a sprinkle of paprika. Mix well and cook for an additional 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to a baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly across the dish.
- Grate the cheese and sprinkle it generously over the top of the vegetables.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Dish: Serve this casserole as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
- Side Dish: It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish.
Cooking Tips
- Extra Flavor: Add other herbs such as thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
- Spiciness: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika if you prefer a spicier dish.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggplants: Low in calories and high in fiber, providing essential nutrients like vitamins B1 and B6, and potassium.
- Vegetables and Herbs: Rich in antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, makes 4 servings)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 7g
Storage
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Flavorful: A healthy and flavorful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables.
- Satisfying: The combination of sautéed vegetables and melted cheese is incredibly satisfying.
- Easy and Convenient: Easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
Conclusion
This Baked Eggplant and Vegetable Casserole is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this tasty casserole with your family and friends! Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
- Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- What type of cheese works best?
- Mozzarella, cheddar, or a cheese blend that melts well.
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the vegetable mixture in advance and assemble it just before baking.
- Is it necessary to soak the eggplants?
- Soaking helps remove bitterness, but if your eggplants are fresh and young, you might skip this step.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze it before adding the cheese. Thaw and bake with cheese when ready to eat.
- What can I use instead of fresh basil?
- You can use dried basil or other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
- Can I make this dish vegan?
- Yes, use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- What can I serve with this casserole?
- Serve with crusty bread, a green salad, or as a side to grilled meats or fish.