Eggplant Parmesan is a beloved Italian dish that combines layers of crispy breaded eggplant with tangy marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. Not only is it a comforting and satisfying meal, but it’s also surprisingly nutritious, thanks to the health benefits of eggplant and other wholesome ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore the recipe for Eggplant Parmesan in detail, including its preparation steps and nutritional facts.
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Preparation:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Prepare the Eggplant:
- Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to release excess moisture.
- After 20 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels to remove the moisture.
- Bread the Eggplant:
- In a shallow dish, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Eggplant:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Working in batches, fry the breaded eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the fried eggplant slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Assemble the Eggplant Parmesan:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Arrange a single layer of fried eggplant slices on top of the marinara sauce.
- Spoon more marinara sauce over the eggplant slices, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers until all the eggplant slices are used, ending with a layer of marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake and Serve:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish the Eggplant Parmesan with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Nutritional Facts:
- Eggplant is low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
- Marinara sauce provides lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes that may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
- Mozzarella cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, essential nutrients for bone health and muscle function.
- Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish, which may help improve heart health and reduce inflammation.
Conclusion:
Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and nutritious Italian classic that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion. With its crispy breaded eggplant, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen!
FAQs:
- Can I use store-bought marinara sauce for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use store-bought marinara sauce or homemade marinara sauce, whichever you prefer.
- Can I bake the eggplant instead of frying it?
- Yes, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a lighter version of Eggplant Parmesan.
- Is Eggplant Parmesan suitable for vegetarians?
- Yes, Eggplant Parmesan is a vegetarian-friendly dish that’s hearty and satisfying.
- Can I freeze leftovers of Eggplant Parmesan?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Eggplant Parmesan in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- What can I serve with Eggplant Parmesan?
- Eggplant Parmesan pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.