Prepare to be amazed by the irresistible flavors of this eggplant casserole that’s not only easy to prepare but skips the frying step, making it a healthier choice. Embrace the culinary magic as you dive into this mouthwatering experience!
Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 onion
- Olive oil
- 1 green sweet pepper
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 tomato
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- Basil
- Paprika
- 100g cheese
Instructions:
1. Eggplant Preparation:
- Slice 2 eggplants into rounds. Sprinkle the slices with 1 teaspoon of salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Sautéing Vegetables:
- In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté finely chopped onion until translucent. Add diced green sweet pepper, minced garlic, and sliced tomato. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Spicing it Up:
- Season the vegetable mixture with black pepper, basil, and paprika according to your taste. Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Assembling the Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). In a baking dish, create a layer of the sautéed vegetables, followed by a layer of eggplant slices. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of eggplants on top.
5. Cheesy Finale:
- Grate 100g of cheese and sprinkle it generously over the top layer of eggplants. This cheesy finale will add a delightful gooeyness to your casserole.
6. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-40 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven, garnish the eggplant casserole with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant touch. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
Tips:
- Layer of Goodness: Enhance the layers by adding a thin spread of your favorite pesto or a drizzle of balsamic glaze between the eggplant slices.
- Nuts and Seeds: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle crushed nuts or seeds like pine nuts or sunflower seeds between the layers.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to infuse additional aromatic notes into the casserole.
Variations:
1. Mediterranean Vibes:
- Include olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
2. Vegan Delight:
- Replace the cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a plant-based version.
3. Protein Boost:
- Add a layer of cooked lentils or chickpeas to increase the protein content.
FAQ:
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese? A1: Absolutely! Choose your favorite cheese or combine a variety for a flavorful blend.
Q2: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A2: Yes, assemble the layers and refrigerate until ready to bake. Adjust baking time accordingly.
Q3: Can I freeze the eggplant casserole? A3: While it can be frozen, the texture of the eggplants may change. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion:
Delight in the goodness of this Irresistible Eggplant Casserole, a no-fry wonder that captivates taste buds with every layer. Embrace the ease of preparation and revel in the rich flavors, making it a dish worth savoring again and again