Creamy Vegetable Parmesan Skillet

This Creamy Vegetable Parmesan Skillet is a comforting and flavorful dish loaded with hearty eggplant, mushrooms, and fresh vegetables. With a luscious cream sauce and plenty of Parmesan cheese, it’s perfect as a vegetarian main course or a side dish. Quick to prepare and rich in flavor, it’s a versatile recipe for any occasion.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Vegetables:
    • Salt (to taste)
    • 1 onion, finely chopped
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 carrot, finely chopped
    • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
    • 3 tomatoes, peeled and diced
    • 1 eggplant, sliced
    • 7 mushrooms, sliced
  • Cream Sauce:
    • 350 ml (1 ½ cups) milk cream
    • Ground pepper (to taste)
    • A small bunch of parsley, chopped
    • 200 grams (1 ¾ cups) Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

  • Prepare the Eggplant:
    • Slice the eggplant and sprinkle salt over it. Let sit for 15 minutes to remove bitterness.
    • Rinse under cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
  • Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper finely.
    • Peel and dice the tomatoes.
    • Slice the mushrooms.
  • Cook the Vegetables:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
    • Add carrot and bell pepper, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
    • Stir in the tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes.
  • Add Eggplant and Mushrooms:
    • Add eggplant slices and mushrooms to the pan, mixing well with the other vegetables.
  • Simmer with Milk Cream:
    • Pour in the milk cream.
    • Season with salt and pepper.
    • Cover and simmer for 10 minutes over low heat.
  • Finish and Serve:
    • Stir in chopped parsley and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
    • Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
    • Serve warm as a main dish or side.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
  • Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Tips

  • Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding herbs like thyme or basil.
  • For a lower-calorie version, use half-and-half or light cream instead of milk cream.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Eggplant: Low in calories, high in fiber, and contains antioxidants.
  • Mushrooms: Provide essential B vitamins and minerals.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds calcium and protein.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-friendly
  • Gluten-free

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 5 g

Storage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with fresh vegetables.
  • Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
  • Versatile and pairs well with various sides.
  • A satisfying way to enjoy a variety of nutritious vegetables.

Conclusion
This Creamy Vegetable Parmesan Skillet is a flavorful, cheesy dish that’s sure to impress. It’s easy to make, nutrient-packed, and customizable with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Whether served as a main or side dish, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Try it today and elevate your meal with this creamy, comforting recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use other vegetables? Yes, zucchini, spinach, or broccoli work well.
  • Can I make it vegan? Use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan.
  • How can I thicken the sauce? Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
  • Can I freeze this dish? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month.
  • What’s the best substitute for Parmesan? Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
  • Can I add protein? Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
  • Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, substitute with diced canned tomatoes.
  • Is there a low-fat option? Use light cream or skim milk with cornstarch for thickness.
  • What’s the best cheese substitute? Grated mozzarella or Gruyère are great alternatives.
  • How do I prevent the eggplant from being bitter? Salting and rinsing the slices remove bitterness.