Have you tried this Italian eggplant Parmesan bake recipe
Italian eggplant Parmesan, also known as melanzane alla Parmigiana, is a classic vegetarian dish that hails from Italy. It layers slices of eggplant with cheese and tomato sauce, then baked to perfection. This dish is not only a staple in Italian cuisine but has also gained popularity worldwide for its rich flavors and vegetarian appeal. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this dish, you will need two large eggplants, salt (for drawing water out of the eggplants), three cups of marinara sauce, two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, one cup of grated Parmesan cheese, one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried basil, olive oil (for brushing), and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Preparing the eggplant
Begin by slicing the eggplants into half-inch thick rounds. Lay them on a paper towel, sprinkling both sides with salt to sit for about 20 minutes, drawing out moisture. Afterward, rinse the slices with water and pat them dry with paper towels. This process is crucial for reducing bitterness and enhancing texture, making the eggplants ideal for layering in the dish.
Assembling the dish
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Brush each eggplant slice with olive oil on both sides, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes until soft and slightly browned. This step is essential for the eggplants to achieve the right texture and flavor for layering in the dish.
Layering ingredients
Begin by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a layer of baked eggplant slices over this. Generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and dried basil on top. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are utilized, finishing with a generous layer of both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on the top.
Baking the dish
Cover the dish with foil and bake at the preheated temperature for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the cheese turns golden brown. Let it cool for five minutes before serving. This Italian eggplant Parmesan bake is a delicious, comforting vegetarian meal perfect for any occasion, made without meat or eggs. Enjoy your homemade delight!
