Eggplant Casserole

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Delicious eggplant casserole served in a baking dish, topped with cheese.

Eggplant Casserole

Eggplant casserole is a delightful dish that showcases the rich flavors of fresh vegetables combined with cheese, making it a hearty meal for vegetarians and a satisfying side dish for meat lovers. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also brimming with nutrition. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for creating this delicious eggplant casserole!

Ingredients

US Measurements

  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 1 onion
  • Olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 green sweet pepper
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 1 large tomato
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or a few fresh leaves)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 3.5 ounces (100g) cheese, grated (such as mozzarella or cheddar)

European Metric Measurements

  • 2 medium aubergines
  • 1 onion
  • Olive oil (for frying)
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 1 large tomato
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • 30ml tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or a few fresh leaves)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 100g cheese, grated (such as mozzarella or cheddar)

Directions

  1. Begin by trimming the ends of the eggplants (aubergines), and peel them into strips for aesthetic appeal. Cut the eggplants into cubes and place them in a bowl filled with water. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water to help draw out excess moisture, then set them aside to soak for about 20 minutes.

  2. While the eggplants soak, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown.

  3. Next, add the diced green sweet pepper to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.

  4. Incorporate the minced garlic cloves and diced tomato, sautéing until fragrant and the tomato begins to break down, approximately 2-3 minutes.

  5. Drain the soaked eggplants and add them to the pan, mixing everything well. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes. The eggplants should soften during this time.

  6. After 10 minutes, remove the lid and season the mixture with salt, black pepper, tomato paste, dried basil, and paprika. Sauté everything for an additional 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

  7. Transfer the cooked vegetable mixture to a rectangular baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the vegetables.

  8. Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 390°F). Once heated, place the casserole in the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  9. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this savory eggplant casserole as a standalone dish or paired with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information & Preparation Time

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Nutritional Information (per serving):

    • Calories: Approximately 220
    • Protein: 10g
    • Carbohydrates: 30g
    • Fat: 8g
    • Fiber: 6g

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  1. Salting the Eggplant: Salting the eggplant before cooking helps reduce bitterness and excess moisture, resulting in a firmer texture in the casserole. Don’t skip this step, as it enhances the overall flavor!

  2. Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor. Parmigiano-Reggiano for a sharper taste or feta for a tangier profile can add an interesting twist to the dish.

  3. Layering Flavors: To deepen the flavor, consider adding other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to your casserole. This not only enhances taste but also increases nutritional content.

Possible Variations

  1. Mediterranean Twist: Add ingredients like olives, artichoke hearts, and ricotta cheese to give the casserole a Mediterranean flair. The combination of these elements pairs excellently with the original mix.

  2. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the casserole before baking. This variation brings an exciting level of spiciness that elevates the dish.

Eggplant casserole is versatile, delicious, and healthy, making it a wonderful addition to your recipe repertoire. Try it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a comforting dinner option on a cozy evening.