Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is made with slices of eggplant, crispy fried in olive oil and then layered with cheese and tomato sauce. It’s a delicious, hearty and nutritious meal that can be served as a main dish, side dish, or even as an appetizer. The best part about this dish is that it can be made with just a few simple ingredients and is ready in minutes.
Ingredients
To make the classic version of Eggplant Parmesan, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4 inch thick slices
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
To make this delicious dish, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dip the eggplant slices into the oil mixture and then dredge them in the flour. Dip the floured slices into the beaten eggs, and then coat them with the breadcrumbs.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until they are golden brown on each side. Place the cooked slices on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil and place the fried eggplant slices in the dish. Top the slices with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake the dish for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil, if desired.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that your Eggplant Parmesan turns out perfectly every time:
- For extra flavor, add some chopped fresh parsley, oregano, and/or basil to the tomato sauce before topping the eggplant slices.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, try baking the eggplant slices for 10 minutes before adding the cheese and tomato sauce.
- For a lighter version of this dish, try baking the eggplant slices instead of frying them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make eggplant parmesan?
To make eggplant parmesan, you will need to slice the eggplant into 1/4 inch thick slices, fry them in olive oil, layer them with cheese and tomato sauce, and then bake them in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Is eggplant parmesan vegetarian?
Yes, eggplant parmesan is a vegetarian dish. It does not contain any meat or animal products.
How long does eggplant parmesan last in the fridge?
Eggplant parmesan will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
What goes with eggplant parmesan?
Eggplant parmesan is usually served with a side of pasta or a salad. It can also be served as an appetizer with crusty bread.
Can you freeze eggplant parmesan?
Yes, eggplant parmesan can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the dish in a freezer-safe container and store in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
