This delightful Stuffed Eggplants with Vegetables and Cheese recipe is a perfect blend of hearty vegetables and rich cheese, all baked to perfection in tender eggplant boats. It’s a colorful and flavorful dish that can serve as a main course or a hearty side, ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of spices adds a warm, aromatic touch, making this dish truly irresistible.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Eggplants
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Eggplants: Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch border. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
- Bake Eggplant Halves: Place the eggplant halves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop Vegetables: Meanwhile, chop the onion, green pepper, red pepper, tomatoes, and mushrooms.
- Sauté Onion: In a large frying pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add Peppers: Add the chopped green and red peppers to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the chopped tomatoes, mushrooms, and the scooped-out eggplant flesh to the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season Mixture: Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pan along with the coriander, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
Assemble and Bake
- Fill Eggplants: Remove the eggplant halves from the oven and fill them with the vegetable mixture.
- Top with Cheese: Top the stuffed eggplants with grated cheese.
- Bake Until Golden Brown: Return the stuffed eggplants to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these stuffed eggplants with a side of couscous or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
- For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish.
Cooking Tips
- To ensure even cooking, make sure to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the vegetable mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggplants: A great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium and vitamin C.
- Vegetables: Rich in antioxidants, thanks to the variety of colorful vegetables.
- Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Vegan: For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all spices and condiments used are gluten-free.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed eggplants for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and vegetables creates a delicious and filling dish.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients make this recipe a go-to for any home cook.
Conclusion
Stuffed Eggplants with Vegetables and Cheese is a versatile, flavorful dish that combines the best of fresh produce with aromatic spices and creamy cheese. It’s a healthy and delicious option that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious vegetarian meal or a hearty side dish, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Enjoy!