Eggplant Parmesan

 Eggplant Parmesan 

Ingredients:

2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 eggs, beaten

1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups marinara sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (additional)

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Olive oil (for frying)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Prepare the Eggplant:

Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.

Bread the Eggplant:

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.

Fry the Eggplant:

Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assemble the Dish:

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce.

Spoon some marinara sauce over the eggplant, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of cheese.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Serve:

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot. Pair with pasta, a side salad, or crusty bread.

Notes:

For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying them.

You can also add a layer of sliced tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cooking Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Kcal: ~350 per serving | Servings: 4