Mega Delicious Baked Eggplant Recipe

Mega Delicious Baked Eggplant Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• Eggplants: 2, medium-sized
• Tomatoes: 2, medium-sized, cut into half-circles
• Cheese: 130 g (4.6 oz), sliced (use mozzarella, feta, or any melting cheese of your choice)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, finely chopped
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 bunch, chopped (or to taste)
• Italian Herb Mix: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: To taste
• Black Pepper: To taste
• Olive Oil: 40-50 ml (2.7-3.4 tablespoons)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Dietary Fiber: 4 g
• Sugars: 5 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Sodium: 300 mg

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplants

1. Wash the eggplants thoroughly and cut off the ends. Make cuts along the entire length of each eggplant, about 1 cm apart, without cutting all the way through to keep them intact.
2. Repeat with the other eggplant. These cuts will form pockets to hold the tomato and cheese slices.

Step 2: Season the Eggplants

1. Take a baking dish and place the eggplants in it. This will catch any juices that run off during baking.
2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, chopped garlic, Italian herb mix, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the olive oil to create a fragrant herb mixture.
3. Spread this mixture generously over the eggplants, making sure to get some of the mixture between the cuts. This will infuse the eggplants with flavor.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Cheese

1. Wash and cut the tomatoes into thin circles, then cut them in half. This will make them easier to fit into the slits of the eggplants.
2. Place a half-circle of tomato into each slit in the eggplants.
3. Cut the cheese into slices that will fit between the slits. Place a piece of cheese in each slit alongside the tomatoes.
4. Brush the eggplants with any remaining olive oil to ensure they stay moist and flavorful during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Eggplants

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the eggplants for about 40 minutes. The eggplants should be tender, the cheese melted, and the tops slightly golden.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Serve the baked eggplants warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy them as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or as a side dish to complement your meal.

Tips for Perfect Baked Eggplants

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the Cheese: For a creamier texture, use mozzarella; for a tangier flavor, try feta or goat cheese.
• Experiment with Herbs: Add other herbs like thyme or basil for additional flavor.

Variations to Try

• Add Meat: For a heartier version, tuck in slices of cooked sausage or ground beef along with the cheese and tomatoes.
• Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped chili for a spicy kick.
• Extra Veggies: Include slices of bell pepper or zucchini in the slits for added color and flavor.