Easy and Delicious Vegetarian Eggplant Lasagna
Easy Eggplant Parmesan
Description: A delicious and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines crispy breaded eggplant slices with tangy marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This Easy Eggplant Parmesan recipe is a delightful vegetarian option for a satisfying family dinner.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Inactive Time: 10 minutes Servings: 4
Author: JustLikeGranny
Ingredients:
• 2 medium-sized eggplants
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and place them on a wire rack for 10 minutes to allow excess moisture to drain.
3. While the eggplant slices are resting, prepare three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels. Dredge each slice in flour, then dip them in the beaten eggs, and finally, coat them with the seasoned breadcrumbs mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
6. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top, slightly overlapping. Cover the eggplant with more marinara sauce, followed by a generous sprinkling of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake the Eggplant Parmesan in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes to Make It Better:
• For a healthier option, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices instead of frying them. Arrange the coated slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until they become crispy.
• Adding a layer of fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes between the eggplant layers can enhance the flavors.
• Serve the Eggplant Parmesan with a side of spaghetti or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving:
Calories: 420 Fat: 20g Saturated Fat: 9g Cholesterol: 125mg Sodium: 1050mg Carbohydrates: 39g Fiber: 8g Sugar: 11g Protein: 23g
Enjoy your delicious Easy Eggplant Parmesan!
***Nutritional information maybe different based on products and different brands used.
