These eggplants are so delicious, you’ll want to make them every day! This quick and easy recipe combines tender eggplants with a flavorful filling of cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Whether served as a main dish or a side, these stuffed eggplants are sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients:
- Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplants: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Wash the eggplants and cut them into 1/2 inch thick slices. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped cherry tomatoes, diced yellow and red bell peppers, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble and Bake: Spoon the prepared filling onto each eggplant slice, pressing it down slightly to adhere. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top of each filled eggplant slice. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the tops are golden brown.
4. Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy stuffed eggplants as a main dish or a side!
Why These Eggplants Are So Delicious
Perfectly Roasted: The eggplants are roasted to perfection, becoming tender and flavorful while maintaining a slight crispiness on the outside. This roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the eggplants.
Flavorful Filling: The filling of cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese is a perfect blend of flavors. The sweetness of the tomatoes and bell peppers complements the savory garlic and Parmesan, while the breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch.
Healthy and Nutritious: This dish is not only delicious but also healthy. Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The vegetables in the filling add additional nutrients, making this a well-rounded dish.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Eggplants
Choose Fresh Eggplants: Select firm, shiny eggplants with no blemishes. Fresh eggplants will have the best texture and flavor.
Even Slices: Cut the eggplants into even slices to ensure they cook uniformly. This prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the filling generously with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavors and makes the dish more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
As a Main Dish: Serve the stuffed eggplants with a simple green salad and a crusty piece of bread for a complete meal. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to satisfy.
As a Side Dish: These stuffed eggplants make a great side dish for grilled meats, fish, or tofu. Their robust flavor pairs well with a variety of main courses.
With Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the stuffed eggplants over a bed of pasta, drizzled with a bit of extra virgin olive oil or a simple tomato sauce.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Eggplants: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, eggplants support heart health and provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
Cherry Tomatoes: High in vitamins C and K, cherry tomatoes also contain antioxidants that help protect against certain diseases.
Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamins A and C, bell peppers add not only flavor but also significant nutritional benefits to the dish.
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic also adds a deliciously pungent flavor to the filling.
Parmesan Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, Parmesan cheese also adds a savory, umami flavor to the dish.
These stuffed eggplants are a culinary delight that combines ease of preparation with outstanding flavor. Perfect as a main dish or a side, they are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try this recipe today and enjoy the deliciousness of perfectly roasted eggplants with a flavorful filling!
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- Celery Soup Recipe: A light and refreshing soup perfect for any time of the year.
- Zucchini Cutlets Recipe: Crispy and flavorful zucchini cutlets that are a great vegetarian option.
- Zucchini Casserole Recipe: A comforting and nutritious casserole made with fresh zucchini.