Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 ball of mozzarella cheese
- 500 ml tomato sauce
- Salt, pepper, and oregano (to taste)
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wash the eggplants and cut them into slices or rounds, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant slices and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Roast the eggplant slices in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- While the eggplant is roasting, prepare the tomato sauce. In a saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour the tomato sauce into the saucepan with the garlic. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Take a baking dish and spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Arrange the roasted eggplant slices on top of the sauce in the baking dish.
- Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the eggplant slices, covering them evenly.
- Slice the mozzarella cheese and place the slices on top of the tomato sauce.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the simple and delicious eggplant dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy your quick and tasty Cheesy Baked Eggplant Recipe!
Serving Suggestion:
For a delightful serving suggestion, accompany this Cheesy Baked Eggplant with a side of fluffy quinoa or couscous to add some wholesome grains to your meal. A fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the eggplant dish. Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and an extra burst of freshness. Additionally, a glass of crisp white wine or a fruity rosé can complement the dish beautifully and elevate your dining experience. Enjoy this delicious creation as a satisfying main course or a delightful appetizer at your next gathering!
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, especially nasunin, which helps protect cells from damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great option for weight management and digestive health.
- Tomato sauce provides lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and may lower the risk of certain cancers.
- Mozzarella cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health and muscle function.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of roasted eggplant, garlic-infused tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella creates a burst of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Versatile: You can enjoy this dish as a main course with a side of salad or as a delicious appetizer for parties and gatherings.
- Vegetarian Delight: This recipe is a fantastic option for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet without sacrificing taste.
- Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, this Cheesy Baked Eggplant is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Eggplants are a low-calorie vegetable rich in antioxidants and fiber, while the tomato sauce provides a dose of lycopene and essential vitamins. Mozzarella cheese adds creaminess and protein, making this recipe a wholesome and satisfying choice for any meal.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner option or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this Cheesy Baked Eggplant is sure to impress. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the delightful flavors that make this dish a standout favorite. Bon appétit!