If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful Italian dish, look no further than Eggplant Parmesan. It’s a tasty combination of breaded and baked eggplant slices, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Similar to its counterpart, Chicken Parmesan, this vegetarian option is perfect for those seeking a meatless alternative. With the crispy texture of the breaded eggplant and the savory flavors of the marinara and cheese, Eggplant Parmesan is sure to satisfy your cravings and become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Eggplant Parmesan
Overview
Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and satisfying Italian dish that features breaded and baked eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and cheese. It is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to incorporate more veggies into their diet. Whether you’re a fan of eggplant or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
To make Eggplant Parmesan, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants
- 2 cups of bread crumbs
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Start by preparing the eggplants. Wash and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step helps to eliminate any bitterness from the eggplant.
- While the eggplant slices are resting, prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the beaten eggs. In the second bowl, combine the bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well. The third bowl should contain the marinara sauce.
- After the eggplant slices have rested, use a paper towel to pat them dry and remove any excess salt.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs, coating both sides, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs gently into the eggplant to ensure they adhere well.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Place the breaded eggplant slices in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
- Once all the eggplant slices are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange a single layer of eggplant slices on top of the sauce. Top the eggplant slices with another layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat this layering process until all the eggplant slices have been used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once fully cooked, remove the Eggplant Parmesan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with a side of pasta or a fresh green salad. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices instead of frying them. Simply arrange the breaded slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Feel free to customize your Eggplant Parmesan by adding additional ingredients. You can layer sautéed mushrooms, sliced bell peppers, or even spinach between the eggplant slices for added flavor and nutrition.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making your own from scratch. Just make sure to choose a high-quality sauce with a rich, robust flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here is the approximate nutritional information for one serving (based on a recipe that serves 6):
- Calories: 435
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 7g
Please note that these values may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and any personal modifications made to the recipe.
FAQ
- Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This can be convenient for meal prep or when you’re expecting guests. Just make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Can I freeze Eggplant Parmesan? Yes, Eggplant Parmesan can be frozen. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with foil and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it according to the instructions. However, please note that freezing may slightly affect the texture of the dish.
- What can I serve with Eggplant Parmesan? Eggplant Parmesan is often served with pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, to make it a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? While mozzarella cheese is traditional for Eggplant Parmesan, you can certainly experiment with other types of cheese. For example, you could try using a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan, or add some grated cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its breaded and baked eggplant slices, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a hearty and comforting meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with pasta. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious and versatile eggplant can be?