This Cheesy Eggplant Skillet Bake is a hearty and nutritious dish, packed with tender vegetables and cheesy goodness. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a wholesome side dish, it’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- Aubergines: 1 large or 2 small, grated
- Onions: 2, finely chopped
- Carrot: 1, grated
- Pepper: 1, diced
- Eggs: 3
- Milk: 1 glass (about 250 ml)
- Wheat Flour: 200g (7 oz)
- Cheese: To taste (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the aubergines, onions, carrot, and pepper thoroughly.
- Grate the aubergines and set them aside.
- Finely chop the onions, grate the carrot, and dice the pepper.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the onions and cook until translucent.
- Stir in the grated carrot and diced pepper, cooking until softened.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the grated aubergines to the skillet and cook until tender.
- Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and flour until smooth.
- Gradually add the cooked vegetable mixture to the batter, stirring to combine.
- Cook the Dish:
- Pour the mixture back into the skillet and cook over medium heat.
- Sprinkle cheese on top and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Cook until the eggs are set, and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a slice of crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
- Top with extra grated cheese for an indulgent twist.
- Serve as a side dish to roasted chicken or grilled meat.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the vegetables are cooked until tender before mixing with the batter.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Experiment with different cheese types for varied flavors.
- Add your favorite herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for extra aroma.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to make slicing easier.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Aubergines: Low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in antioxidants.
- Carrots and Peppers: Provide vitamins A and C, boosting immunity and eye health.
- Eggs: High-quality protein and essential vitamins.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Contains dairy and gluten.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and quick to prepare with everyday ingredients.
- A comforting and versatile dish that pairs well with various sides.
- Packed with vegetables and protein for a balanced meal.
- Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and herbs.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Eggplant Skillet Bake is a delicious way to enjoy nutritious vegetables with a cheesy twist. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today for a satisfying and wholesome meal!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different vegetables? Yes, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms make great substitutes or additions.
- What cheese works best? Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan all work well. Feel free to mix and match!
- Can I make this gluten-free? Substitute wheat flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stove? Yes, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes.
- Can I skip the cheese? Yes, but the cheese adds richness and flavor. Consider using a dairy-free alternative if needed.
- What can I serve this with? It pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.
- Can I use plant-based milk? Yes, almond or oat milk works as a substitute.
- How do I prevent sticking? Use a non-stick skillet or generously grease the pan.
- Is this dish kid-friendly? Absolutely! The cheesy flavor and soft texture make it appealing to kids.