This hearty and flavorful eggplant and vegetable skillet dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With a mix of tender vegetables, herbs, and melted cheese, it’s an easy and satisfying meal. The eggs give it a boost of protein, while the cheese adds a rich, savory finish.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant
- 1 tsp salt (for soaking eggplant)
- Water (for soaking)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 pepper (chopped)
- 1 green pepper (chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (blanched and chopped)
- Parsley (to taste, chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp salt (for seasoning)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp salt (for eggs)
- Spring onions (chopped)
- Cheese (grated, to taste)
Directions:
- Prepare the Eggplant:
- Slice the eggplant and soak in salted water (1 tsp salt) for 15 minutes to remove any bitterness.
- After soaking, drain and pat dry.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a skillet, heat a little vegetable oil and fry the eggplant slices until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Add 1 tbsp butter to the skillet and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add the chopped peppers and cook for a few minutes.
- Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 5 minutes, then peel and chop them. Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Season and Add Herbs:
- Stir in the parsley and minced garlic. Season with 1 tsp salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add Eggs:
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs with 1 tsp salt and a pinch of black pepper.
- Pour the whisked eggs over the vegetables in the skillet, then sprinkle chopped spring onions on top.
- Add Cheese and Finish Cooking:
- Grate your favorite cheese over the eggs and vegetables.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat until the cheese melts and the eggs are set.
- Serve:
- Garnish with extra parsley or spring onions, if desired. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or flatbread.
- Enjoy it with a fresh salad on the side for a balanced meal.
- Perfect as a light lunch or dinner with a drizzle of olive oil.
Cooking Tips:
- Soaking the eggplant in salted water helps to remove bitterness.
- For extra flavor, use smoked cheese or add some chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- You can easily customize this dish by adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplant: A low-calorie vegetable rich in fiber and antioxidants.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12 and D.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and a source of fat for satiety.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the eggs and cheese or use plant-based substitutes. You can add tofu or chickpeas for protein. - What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or feta cheese work well, but you can use any cheese that melts nicely. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach to enhance the nutritional value and flavor. - How can I prevent eggplant from absorbing too much oil?
Soaking the eggplant in salted water helps reduce oil absorption during frying. You can also lightly oil the skillet and roast the eggplant instead. - What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet meal pairs well with bread, a fresh salad, or even rice for a more filling meal. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables in advance and reheat them before adding the eggs and cheese. - Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your cheese and seasonings to ensure they are gluten-free. - Can I use roasted tomatoes instead of blanched?
Yes, roasted tomatoes will add a deeper, smoky flavor to the dish. - How can I make this spicier?
Add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the vegetable mix for a spicy version. - Can I bake this dish instead of cooking it on the stove?
Yes, after adding the eggs and cheese, you can place the skillet in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) and bake until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.