ADVERTISEMENT

Cheesy Eggplant Gratin: A Hearty and Flavorful Vegetarian Bake

ADVERTISEMENT

Ingredients:

  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • 1 Large Eggplant
  • 1 Onion, chopped
  • 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
  • 3 Small Tomatoes, chopped
  • Fresh Basil, chopped (amount to your taste)
  • 1 Yellow Bell Pepper, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons Tomato Paste
  • chopped (amount to your taste)
  • Fresh Dill, chopped (amount to your taste)
  • 100g Grated Cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or your favorite)
  • 100g Mozzarella Cheese, shredded

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the eggplant: Slice the eggplant into rounds or cubes, whichever you prefer. Thicker slices will take a little longer to bake, so keep that in mind. Lightly brush or drizzle the eggplant with  to coat them for roasting. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Preheat the oven: Get your oven started by preheating it to 180°C (350°F). This ensures everything cooks evenly.
  3. Bake the eggplant: Place the seasoned eggplant slices on a baking sheet and pop them in the Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the eggplant slices become tender.
  4. Sauté the vegetables: While the eggplant bakes, heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they soften and become fragrant. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add the bell peppers: Once the onion and garlic are softened, add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers to the pan. Cook them for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften slightly.
  6. Combine the sauce: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and chopped fresh basil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
  7. Assemble the gratin: In a baking dish, create a layer with the pre-cooked eggplant slices. Top them with the flavorful vegetable sauce you just prepared.
  8. Bake until bubbly: Place the assembled gratin back in the  and bake for 20-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly.
  9. Cheese time! Finally, sprinkle the combined grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or your choice) and shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the gratin. The cheese will create a delicious and visually appealing topping.
  10. Serve and enjoy! Once the gratin is cooked through, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish it with a sprinkle of  and dill for an extra touch of flavor and color. Enjoy this warm and comforting vegetarian dish!

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve this Cheesy Eggplant Gratin as a main course with a side salad for a complete vegetarian meal.
  • It can also be enjoyed as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pasta.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a quick and delicious lunch the next day.

Cooking Tips:

  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for a longer time after adding the tomatoes.
  • Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Goat cheese, feta cheese, or Gruyere would all be delicious alternatives.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing the vegetables. This will ensure they cook evenly and don’t steam.
  • To make this recipe vegan, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and omit the honey (if using).

Nutritional Benefits:

Read more on next page

The information you provided is not valid. Please check the field format and try again.
Your subscription is confirmed.

Exclusive Recipes, Delivered to Your Inbox!

ADVERTISEMENT

Leave a Comment