Eggplant parmesan with fresh basil and smoked mozzarella –Are you on the lookout for a delicious and healthy twist on a classic Italian dish? Look no further than this scrumptious Healthy Baked Eggplant Parmesan! This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also gives you the nourishment you need without the extra calories. Perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress your friends at a gathering, this meal is sure to be a hit!
Healthy Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Let’s take a closer look at why this dish is a fantastic option for those who love comfort food without the guilt. The key ingredient here is eggplant, which is packed with vitamins and minerals, low in calories, and high in fiber. When baked to perfection and layered with sauce and cheese, it becomes a heartwarming meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle the sliced eggplant rounds with salt and place them in a colander. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Rinse the eggplant under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, mix the whole wheat breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and dried oregano.
- Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Dip each eggplant slice into the olive oil, then into the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated. Place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake the coated eggplant slices for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are golden brown.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange half of the baked eggplant slices over the sauce, then top with half of the remaining marinara sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Add the remaining eggplant slices, top with the rest of the marinara sauce and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot!
This Healthy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful way to enjoy a traditional favorite while maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or even as a comforting meal for special occasions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking!