Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be transformed into a delightful dish packed with flavor. This baked eggplant recipe combines a medley of fresh ingredients and spices, creating a beautiful and tasty dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re an eggplant enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe will surely impress!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- Eggplant: 1 medium-sized
- Vegetable oil: For greasing
- Salt: To taste
- Black pepper: To taste
- Paprika: To taste
- Onion: 1 medium
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Bell pepper: 1 medium
- Tomato sauce: 100 g
- Oregano: To taste
- Cheese: 100 g (grated)
- Mushrooms: 3-4 medium
- Cherry tomatoes: 5-6
- Olives: A handful
- Sour cream: 2 tablespoons
- Mayonnaise: 1 tablespoon
- Spring onions: For garnish
Directions
- Prep the Eggplant:
- Cut the eggplant into 1-centimeter thick slices.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with baking paper.
- Season the Eggplant:
- Grease the eggplant slices with vegetable oil.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and paprika on top to taste.
- Bake the Eggplant:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Bake the eggplant for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Topping:
- While the eggplant is baking, chop 1 onion, 1 clove of garlic, and 1 bell pepper.
- In a bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with 100 g of tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano to taste.
- Add Additional Toppings:
- Slice the mushrooms and cherry tomatoes.
- Once the eggplant has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and top each slice with the vegetable mixture, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
- Cheese It Up:
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top of each slice.
- Final Bake:
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes at 180°C (356°F), or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of sour cream and 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. Season with salt if desired.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped spring onions.
- Drizzle with the sour cream and mayonnaise mixture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm as a main dish or a delightful side.
- Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- You can add your favorite spices or herbs to the vegetable mixture for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or feta, for varied tastes.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, making it great for digestion.
- Tomato sauce provides antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health.
- Mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals, boosting your immune system.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is vegetarian and can be made vegan by omitting the cheese and using plant-based sour cream and mayonnaise.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fats: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked eggplant dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a perfect way to enjoy the goodness of vegetables.
Conclusion
This baked eggplant recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. With layers of flavor from fresh toppings and a cheesy finish, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try it out and enjoy a delightful meal that showcases the versatility of eggplant!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add or substitute with zucchini, squash, or spinach. - How can I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the vegetable mixture. - Is it necessary to peel the eggplant?
No, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. - Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the eggplant and toppings a day in advance and bake just before serving. - What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or feta all work well in this recipe. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. - How do I know when the eggplant is done?
The eggplant should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden. - Can I use canned tomato sauce?
Absolutely! Canned sauce is convenient and works perfectly. - What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Enjoy your baked eggplant dish!