Joe Roshkovsky
Exquisite Nutty Eggplant Bake: A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight
This Exquisite Nutty Eggplant Bake is a savory and hearty vegetarian dish that combines tender eggplant slices with a flavorful nutty topping. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner and is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates with its rich textures and robust flavors.
Ingredients
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplants:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
– Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush both sides with olive oil.
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplants are golden and tender.
2. Prepare the Nutty Topping:
– In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, chopped walnuts, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Assemble the Bake:
– In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
– Place a layer of baked eggplant slices over the marinara sauce.
– Sprinkle a handful of the nutty breadcrumb mixture over the eggplant slices.
– Repeat the layering process, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Bake the Dish:
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
– Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve:
– Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Enjoy this delightful Exquisite Nutty Eggplant Bake as a main course with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
