Name: Eggplant Parmesan: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Eggplants (2 medium, sliced into ½-inch rounds): High in fiber and antioxidants, providing a meaty texture.; Kosher Salt (1 tbsp): Helps draw out moisture and reduce bitterness in eggplant.; All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Creates a light coating for frying.; Eggs (2 large, beaten): Helps bind the breadcrumbs to the eggplant.; Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Adds crunch and texture to the dish.; Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Provides nutty, salty richness.; Dried Oregano (1 tbsp): Enhances the Mediterranean flavors.; Dried Thyme (1 tbsp): Adds warmth and earthiness.; Marinara Sauce (2 cups): A tomato-based sauce that brings depth and acidity.; Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Creates a melty, gooey texture.; Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (¼ cup): Used for pan-frying the eggplant.; Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish): Adds freshness and aroma.; Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balance.

Description

Eggplant Parmesan is a layered baked dish featuring breaded and fried eggplant slices, tomato-based marinara sauce, and cheese, all baked together until golden and bubbly.

Ingredients

Eggplants (2 medium, sliced into ½-inch rounds): High in fiber and antioxidants, providing a meaty texture.
Kosher Salt (1 tbsp): Helps draw out moisture and reduce bitterness in eggplant.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Creates a light coating for frying.
Eggs (2 large, beaten): Helps bind the breadcrumbs to the eggplant.
Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Adds crunch and texture to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Provides nutty, salty richness.
Dried Oregano (1 tbsp): Enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
Dried Thyme (1 tbsp): Adds warmth and earthiness.
Marinara Sauce (2 cups): A tomato-based sauce that brings depth and acidity.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Creates a melty, gooey texture.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (¼ cup): Used for pan-frying the eggplant.
Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish): Adds freshness and aroma.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balance.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Sprinkle sliced eggplant with kosher salt and let it sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Rinse and pat dry.

Step 2: Coat the Eggplant

Dredge each slice in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, and thyme.

Step 3: Pan-Fry the Eggplant

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides.
Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a baking dish, spread marinara sauce, layer fried eggplant slices, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and repeat layers.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Notes

To enhance the flavors of your Eggplant Parmesan, consider adding fresh ricotta cheese between layers for extra creaminess, toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a touch of sweetness, while fresh basil brings a burst of freshness. Serve alongside garlic bread or a simple arugula salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Eggplant Parmesan