Italian baked eggplant with parmesan parmigiana di melanzane –Welcome to a delicious journey through one of the classic Italian dishes, Eggplant Parmigiana, or Parmigiana di Melanzane. This flavorful dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the rich layers of eggplant, sauce, and cheese that make this recipe truly special.
Image of Eggplant Parmigiana
Take a moment to admire this beautiful presentation of Eggplant Parmigiana. The layers of eggplant are beautifully baked, giving off a golden, inviting appearance.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- Salt, for sweating the eggplant
- Olive oil, for frying
- 3 cups of marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own Eggplant Parmigiana:
- Prepare the Eggplant: Sprinkle the sliced eggplant with salt and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This step helps to remove excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplant.
- Rinse and Dry: After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Fry the Eggplant: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until they are golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of fried eggplant. Add a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the assembled dish for about 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it Rest: Once baked, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal!
Eggplant Parmigiana is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully together. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, and it’s perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party.