Description
Indulge in a guilt-free twist on a classic Italian dish with our recipe for Healthy Baked Eggplant Parmesan. Learn how to make this flavorful and nutritious meal today!
Ingredients
- – 2 medium eggplants (500g)
- – 2 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided (37.5ml)
- – 1/2 cup (120 ml) shredded beef-friendly cheese
- – 1/2 cup (120 ml) seasoned breadcrumbs
- – 2 cups (480 ml) shredded beef-friendly cheese
- – 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
Instructions
- Set your oven to 375°F to warm up.
- Cut the eggplants into 12 slices, each about 1/2 inch thick. Arrange them on a cooling rack for cookies and sprinkle a generous amount of salt over them. Place a large baking tray on top to apply pressure. Let them rest for 30 minutes as the oven heats up. This step can be skipped, but it helps remove moisture and bitterness from the eggplants. I find it manageable since it takes just a bit longer than the oven heating time and is hands-free.
- Pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels to absorb any lingering moisture. Move them to a sizable baking tray. Use a pastry brush to coat both sides of the eggplants with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Season both sides well with salt and pepper. Roast them in the oven for 20 minutes.
- As the eggplants bake, mix the 1/2 cup shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Spread a cup of the marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. After the eggplants have roasted for 20 minutes, layer six slices at the bottom of the dish. Add a tablespoon of sauce over each. Distribute the cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the eggplant slices. Sprinkle with half of the 2 cups shredded cheese. Top with another eggplant slice. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the eggplant. Cover with the rest of the shredded cheese. Bake in the oven for another 20 minutes or until the eggplants are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Try using whole wheat seasoned breadcrumbs for a healthier twist.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor.
- Mix red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce for a spicier kick.
