Are you looking for delicious and easy eggplant recipes that even Martha Stewart would approve of? Look no further! Eggplant, a versatile and flavourful vegetable, is the star of this collection of healthy and satisfying meals. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these homemade culinary masterpieces!
Roasted Eggplant with Garlic and Herbs
This recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to enjoy eggplant. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness, creating a delicious side dish or a fantastic base for other recipes. It's a perfect example of how easy healthy meals can be.
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, about 1 pound, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the eggplant cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the eggplant is evenly coated.
- Spread the eggplant in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and slightly browned, flipping halfway through.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
- You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- This roasted eggplant is fantastic served as a side dish, or you can use it as a base for pasta, pizza, or sandwiches.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 100-120
- Fat: 7-9g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
Eggplant Parmesan Stacks (a healthier twist!)
This lighter take on the classic eggplant parmesan is just as satisfying, if not more so! It’s a fantastic quick dinner idea perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Dip each eggplant slice in the beaten eggs, then coat with a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Layer the eggplant slices in the baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour marinara sauce over each layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a high-quality marinara sauce.
- Add some mozzarella cheese to the layers for extra cheesiness.
- You can use different types of cheese in the breadcrumb mixture, like Pecorino Romano.
- This dish is even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping.
These recipes offer a delicious and healthy way to enjoy eggplant. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and cheeses to create your own variations. Happy cooking!