Eggplants are a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be prepared in numerous ways. While frying is a common method, baking eggplant allows you to achieve tender, flavorful slices without the added oil and calories of frying. This oven-baked eggplant appetizer is layered with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and a vibrant garlic-herb sauce that takes this simple dish to the next level. It’s an ideal appetizer or side dish, offering the perfect balance of savory flavors and melted cheesy goodness, all while being easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 eggplant, sliced into rounds
- 3 tomatoes, sliced
- 300 g (10.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp sweet pepper
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by prepping the eggplant, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese. Slice the eggplant into even rounds, about ½ inch thick to ensure uniform cooking. Similarly, slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into rounds. Having all the ingredients prepped and ready will make assembling the appetizer quick and easy.
2. Make the Garlic-Herb Sauce
The secret to the rich flavor of this baked eggplant dish lies in the sauce. In a small bowl, combine:
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp sweet pepper
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- ½ cup olive oil
Stir the mixture well, making sure the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the olive oil. This sauce will infuse the eggplant with aromatic garlic and herbs, giving the dish a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
3. Layer the Eggplant Slices
Now that your sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the appetizer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking sheet or pan with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the sliced eggplant in a single layer on the pan, ensuring there’s a bit of space between each slice to allow for even cooking.
Once the eggplant slices are arranged, drizzle 1 teaspoon of the garlic-herb sauce over each slice. This will allow the eggplant to absorb all the delicious flavors while baking.
Next, layer each eggplant slice with a round of tomato, followed by a slice of mozzarella. The combination of eggplant, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a deliciously satisfying stack that bakes to perfection.
4. Bake the Eggplant Appetizer
Once the eggplant slices are stacked and assembled, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly, and the eggplant has become tender. The edges of the eggplant should be golden brown, and the tomatoes slightly softened.
If you prefer a more golden and crispy top, you can switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just be sure to watch carefully so the cheese doesn’t burn.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the eggplant is baked to perfection, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool slightly. Transfer the eggplant stacks to a serving platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added flavor and visual appeal.
This appetizer is best served warm, allowing the cheese to remain melted and gooey, while the eggplant retains its soft, tender texture. You’ll love the contrast of flavors—the rich, earthy eggplant, the bright acidity of the tomatoes, and the savory, melted mozzarella—making each bite irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Oven-Baked Eggplant Appetizer
This baked eggplant dish offers all the satisfaction of fried eggplant but without the extra effort or oil. Baking allows the eggplant to become soft and tender while developing rich, roasted flavors. The combination of tomatoes and mozzarella gives it a classic Italian flavor, reminiscent of eggplant Parmesan but in a lighter, simpler format. The garlic-herb sauce, with its bold flavors of garlic, basil, and pepper, ties everything together perfectly, making this a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Tips for the Perfect Eggplant Appetizer
1. Choose Fresh, Firm Eggplant
For the best results, select eggplants that are firm to the touch with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid eggplants that are soft or have blemishes, as they may be overripe and less flavorful.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Pan
Make sure to leave space between the eggplant slices on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause the slices to steam rather than bake, preventing them from achieving that delicious golden-brown color and tender texture.
3. Adjust the Seasoning to Taste
Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the garlic-herb sauce according to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, try incorporating fresh oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Sugar: 4 g
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Not only is this baked eggplant appetizer incredibly flavorful, but it’s also a healthier alternative to fried eggplant dishes. The oven-baking process locks in all the rich flavors without the need for excessive oil, resulting in a light yet satisfying dish. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a weeknight side dish, this recipe is sure to impress.