Savory Baked Eggplant with Tomato and Cheese Crust

Looking for a healthy and flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare? This savory baked eggplant dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a light weekend lunch. With just a few ingredients like tomato puree, garlic, and cheese, you can create a delicious and wholesome meal that is packed with Mediterranean flavors. This dish offers a delightful combination of tender roasted eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and a crispy cheese and breadcrumb topping that will keep you coming back for more!

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggplants
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 5g dried ginger
  • Oregano, to taste
  • Basil, to taste
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 150 ml tomato puree
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the sauce)
  • Paprika, to taste
  • 100 grams of cheese, grated
  • Breadcrumbs, for topping

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Eggplant
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thick slices, about 1 cm (0.4 inches) each. Sprinkle them with salt and set aside for 10 minutes to draw out any excess moisture. Afterward, gently pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel.
  2. Roast the Eggplant
    • Drizzle the eggplant slices with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the dried ginger, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper over the slices.
    • Roast the eggplant in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly golden.
  3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
    • While the eggplant is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for roughly 1 minute, or until it releases its aroma.
    • Add the tomato puree, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the pan.
    • Cook at a gentle simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring from time to time, until the sauce begins to thicken.
  4. Assemble the Dish
    • Once the eggplant slices are roasted, remove them from the oven. Spoon the tomato sauce evenly over each eggplant slice, making sure to cover them generously.
  5. Add the Toppings
    • Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the sauced eggplants. Then, top with a thin layer of breadcrumbs to create a crispy finish.
  6. Bake Again
    • Return the eggplant to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  7. Serve and Enjoy
    • Once baked, remove the eggplant from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
    • Serve warm as a main dish or as a flavorful side, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired.

Conclusion:

This baked eggplant dish is a delicious combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a hearty, flavorful meal. The tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and cheesy, crispy topping make this dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for the family or looking for a healthier, satisfying alternative to heavier meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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