To make these irresistible baked eggplants, you’ll need:
2 eggplants (about 16 slices)
150 g of tomato puree
100 g of grated light cheese
3 cloves of garlic
1 bunch of chopped parsley
30 ml of extra virgin olive oil
A few breadcrumbs
Aromatic herbs, dried garlic, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt to taste
Preparation:
Flavor-Packed Marination
First, let’s prepare the eggplants for baking. Trim them and cut them into round slices about 1 centimeter thick. Place the slices in a bowl, sprinkle them with a teaspoon of salt, and cover them with water. Let them rest for 10 minutes to remove any bitterness.
While the eggplants are resting, prepare a flavorful marination. In a bowl, combine one clove of chopped garlic, chopped parsley, salt, aromatic herbs, smoked paprika, pepper, and a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Mix everything well to create a fragrant marinade.
Baking the Eggplants
After 10 minutes, drain the eggplant slices and pat them dry with absorbent paper. Place them on a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper coated with garlic-flavored oil. Using a knife, make shallow cuts on the surface of the eggplant slices and brush them with the flavored oil. Bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes until they’re tender and slightly golden.
Stuffing with Tomato Paste and Cheese
While the eggplants are baking, prepare the stuffing. In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste with salt, dried basil, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Add two grated garlic cloves and combine everything thoroughly.
Once the eggplants are baked, remove them from the oven and carefully stuff them with the tomato paste mixture and grated cheese. Fold each eggplant slice in half to create a half-moon shape.
Final Touches and Baking Again
Transfer the stuffed eggplants to an oiled glass baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on the bottom for an extra crunch. Return the dish to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes at 180°C until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
These delicious baked eggplants can be served hot out of the oven as a main dish or alongside your favorite sides. Pair them with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Benefits of Baked Eggplants
Baked eggplants offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried dishes. By avoiding frying, you reduce the amount of oil and calories in the recipe, making it suitable for those watching their waistlines. Additionally, baking helps retain more nutrients and flavors, ensuring you get the maximum health benefits from this nutritious vegetable.
