This Vegetable and Parmesan Cream Sauce with Eggplant Noodles is a delightful and flavorful addition to your meal repertoire. It’s packed with fresh vegetables and rich Parmesan, creating a creamy and satisfying sauce that’s perfect for any dish. The grated eggplant adds a unique twist, providing a noodle-like texture that’s both healthy and delicious.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant, grated like noodles
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 7 mushrooms, sliced
- Basil (fresh or dried, to taste)
- 350 ml milk cream
- 200 g Parmesan, grated
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Plant oil for frying
Directions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Soak the grated eggplant and chopped vegetables in salted water for a few minutes to remove any bitterness. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a large pan, heat plant oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Add Carrot and Bell Pepper:
- Add the diced carrot and chopped bell pepper to the pan. Cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Tomatoes:
- Pour boiling water over the chopped tomatoes, then add them to the pan.
- Cook until the tomatoes break down and form a sauce.
- Add Mushrooms and Basil:
- Add the sliced mushrooms and basil to the pan. Cook until the mushrooms are tender.
- Add Eggplant Noodles:
- Stir in the grated eggplant and cook until tender and absorbed into the sauce.
- Add Milk Cream:
- Pour in the milk cream and stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Add Parmesan:
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan, stirring continuously until melted and integrated into the sauce.
- Season:
- Season the sauce with salt and ground pepper to taste.
- Finish with Parsley:
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and serve over your favorite pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this creamy sauce over pasta, rice, or gnocchi.
- Pair with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk cream.
- Add a splash of white wine before the milk cream for extra depth.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Parmesan: A good source of calcium and protein.
- Eggplant: Provides dietary fiber and antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy and is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
- Can be made gluten-free by serving over gluten-free pasta or rice.
Storage Tips:
- Store: In an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy, rich, and packed with fresh vegetables, making it both delicious and nutritious.
- Grated eggplant noodles add a unique texture and healthy twist.
- Versatile for various dishes like pasta, rice, or even as a sauce for grilled chicken or vegetables.
- Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions.
Conclusion: This Vegetable and Parmesan Cream Sauce with Eggplant Noodles is a versatile and flavorful addition to your recipe collection. With its creamy texture, rich taste, and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it over your favorite pasta or rice for a satisfying and delicious meal. Bon Appetit!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can customize the vegetables to your preference or what you have on hand. - Is there a substitute for milk cream?
Yes, heavy cream or a non-dairy milk alternative can be used for different dietary needs. - Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative can be used. - Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw and reheat gently. - How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. - Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, fresh basil can be used for a more intense flavor. - What can I serve this sauce with?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, gnocchi, or as a topping for grilled vegetables or chicken. - How do I know when the sauce is done?
The sauce should be creamy, with vegetables tender and Parmesan fully melted and integrated. - Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, cooked chicken, beef, or sausage can be added for a heartier meal.