This Delicious Baked Eggplant Appetizer is a delightful combination of tender eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and melty cheese, topped with a hint of garlic for added flavor. Easy to prepare and perfect as a snack or starter, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant
- 1 large tomato or 1.5 medium tomatoes
- 150g grated cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan)
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules or 3 crushed garlic cloves
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Wash the eggplant and tomato(es) thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Slice the eggplant into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Slice the tomato(es) into rounds, similar in thickness to the eggplant slices.
- Season Eggplant:
- Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- If using fresh garlic cloves, crush them using a garlic press or finely chop them.
- Sprinkle the crushed garlic or garlic granules evenly over the eggplant slices.
- Assemble Appetizer:
- Place a tomato slice on top of each eggplant slice.
- Sprinkle grated cheese generously over the tomato and eggplant slices, covering them completely.
- Season with a pinch of salt over the cheese-topped slices.
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the eggplant are golden brown.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the Delicious Baked Eggplant Appetizer from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the appetizer warm as a delightful and easy-to-make snack or starter.
Serving Suggestions:
- Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer at dinner parties or gatherings.
- Snack: Enjoy as a quick and nutritious snack.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
- Bruschetta: Serve on top of toasted bread slices for a tasty bruschetta variation.
Cooking Tips:
- Uniform Slices: Ensure the eggplant and tomato slices are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Cheese Variety: Use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan for a richer flavor.
- Herb Topping: Sprinkle some dried Italian herbs or fresh basil on top before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplant: Low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Tomatoes: High in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium, essential for bone health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-Carb: A great low-carb option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Delicious and Nutritious: Combines fresh vegetables with the richness of melted cheese.
- Versatile: Can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- Flavorful: The garlic and cheese add a wonderful depth of flavor to the tender eggplant and juicy tomatoes.
Conclusion:
This Delicious Baked Eggplant Appetizer is a simple yet flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese, it offers a delightful taste experience. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your baked eggplant appetizer warm and savor the delicious flavors.