17 Italian Eggplant Parmesan Recipe Baked Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!

Italian eggplant parmesan is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of eggplant and parmesan cheese in a delicious and satisfying meal. This baked version of the recipe is a healthier and easier alternative to the traditional fried version, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a few simple ingredients and some easy preparation steps, you can create a mouth-watering dish that will impress your family and friends. Let's dive into the details of this delicious Italian eggplant parmesan recipe and learn how to make it at home.

Ingredients:

Eggplant:

The star ingredient of this dish is, of course, the eggplant. It is essential to choose fresh and firm eggplants, as they will hold up better during the baking process. Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as potassium and vitamin C. When sliced and baked, eggplants have a tender and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce and melty cheese.

Breadcrumbs:

For the perfect crispy coating on the eggplant slices, you will need breadcrumbs. You can use store-bought breadcrumbs, or for a healthier alternative, make your own by toasting and grinding stale bread. Whole wheat breadcrumbs are a great option to add some extra fiber and nutrients to the dish. The breadcrumbs will give a nice crunch and add a depth of flavor to the eggplant parmesan.

Tomato sauce:

A good quality tomato sauce is crucial for this recipe. You can use store-bought or make your own from scratch. If making your own, you can add your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor. The tomato sauce will add a tangy and savory element to the dish, balancing out the richness of the cheese and eggplant.

Cheese:

The final and most important ingredient in this dish is the cheese. Parmesan cheese is the traditional choice for this recipe, but you can also use a combination of mozzarella and parmesan for a gooey and melty texture. The cheese will add a salty and savory flavor to the dish, making it even more delicious.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

To start, wash and slice the eggplant into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit for 15 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture from the eggplant, resulting in a firmer and less soggy texture.

Step 2: Create the Crispy Coating

In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Dip each eggplant slice into the mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Place the coated slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the eggplant slices for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The slices should be tender and lightly golden when done.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the baked eggplant slices on top, overlapping them if necessary. Cover the slices with another layer of tomato sauce, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake the assembled dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

In conclusion,

This Italian eggplant parmesan recipe is a must-try for any Italian food lover. With its crispy and flavorful coating, tender eggplant, and gooey cheese, it is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It is also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. So next time you are craving some comfort food, give this baked eggplant parmesan a try and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.