If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious dish that requires minimal effort and no oven or frying, this Eggplant and Tomato Stack is the perfect choice. Combining the tender texture of eggplant with juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs, this simple yet elegant dish is ideal for a light meal, appetizer, or side. Packed with Mediterranean flavors, it’s a fresh, satisfying option for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants
- 2 tomatoes
- 130 grams of cheese (such as mozzarella, or any cheese of your choice)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Fresh dill (or parsley, or arugula)
- Italian herbs (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the eggplant:
- Wash and slice the eggplants into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle the slices with a little salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Steam the eggplant:
- In a large skillet, add a small amount of water and a drizzle of olive oil. Place the eggplant slices in the skillet, cover with a lid, and steam them on low heat for 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through until they become tender. Be sure not to overcook, as you want them to maintain their shape.
- Prepare the tomatoes and cheese:
- While the eggplant is steaming, slice the tomatoes and cheese into similar-sized rounds, roughly matching the size of the eggplant slices.
- Assemble the stack:
- On a plate, layer the cooked eggplant slices, followed by a slice of tomato and a slice of cheese. Repeat the layers until you have used all of your ingredients, creating small stacks.
- Season the stacks:
- Drizzle the stacks with a little olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, fresh dill (or your choice of herbs), and Italian herbs if using.
- Let the flavors combine:
- Allow the stacks to sit for 5-10 minutes so the flavors can meld together. The cheese will soften slightly from the warmth of the eggplant, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve the eggplant and tomato stacks as a light meal, appetizer, or alongside a main dish. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a dash of balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
Conclusion:
This Eggplant and Tomato Stack is the ultimate no-fuss dish that combines fresh, wholesome ingredients in a delightful and healthy way. With no need for an oven or frying, this recipe keeps the flavors clean and light, making it perfect for a quick meal or as a beautiful appetizer. The blend of tender eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese, enhanced by garlic and herbs, offers a taste of Mediterranean goodness that’s sure to impress!