This Baked Stuffed Eggplants with Eggs recipe is a flavorful and wholesome dish perfect for a filling breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of roasted eggplants, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a savory, satisfying base, while the eggs and cheese add protein and richness. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and makes an impressive meal for any occasion. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking for a healthy, delicious meal, these stuffed eggplants are a fantastic choice.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Smoked paprika, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- ¼ bunch parsley, finely chopped
- 70g (⅔ cup) grated cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or cream
- 4 large eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil, for coating
Directions:
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- Wash the eggplants and cut them in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the core and set it aside. Salt the scooped-out cores and leave them for 10 minutes to release juices. Rinse and pat dry.
- Coat the eggplant halves with olive oil, ground black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Dice the tomato and chop the garlic.
- Mix the diced tomatoes, garlic, eggplant cores, grated cheese, parsley, mayonnaise or cream in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the eggplant halves in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Fill each eggplant half with the vegetable mixture, then crack an egg into each half.
- Top with remaining grated cheese and a sprinkle of parsley.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until the eggs are cooked and the cheese is golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a side of quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing complement.
- Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice or olive oil for added flavor.
- Enjoy with a side of crusty bread for a heartier dish.
Cooking Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the filling.
- Use any type of cheese you prefer—feta, cheddar, or mozzarella all work well.
- To avoid soggy eggplants, ensure you salt and drain the eggplant cores properly.
- For extra crispiness, bake the eggplants uncovered in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants are rich in fiber and antioxidants, promoting heart health and digestion.
- Eggs provide high-quality protein, vitamins B12, D, and healthy fats.
- Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C and lycopene, which supports immune function.
- Garlic offers anti-inflammatory benefits and boosts immunity.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: Contains minimal carbohydrates, making it keto-friendly.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the cheese with dairy-free alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until warm.
- You can freeze the baked eggplants for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a healthy and nutritious meal, perfect for any time of day.
- The combination of roasted eggplant, cheese, and eggs makes this dish both satisfying and flavorful.
- The recipe is easy to make and uses simple, everyday ingredients.
- It’s versatile, customizable, and can easily be adapted to suit different diets.
Conclusion:
Baked Stuffed Eggplants with Eggs is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the natural sweetness of eggplants with the savory richness of cheese, eggs, and herbs. It’s a perfect option for vegetarians, and its simple preparation makes it a great choice for a family meal. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, these eggplant boats are filling, flavorful, and sure to impress. Add this recipe to your weekly menu, and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.