Eggplant Del Monico
Eggplant Del Monico is a hearty, flavorful casserole combining tender mashed eggplant, seasoned shrimp, and savory vegetables, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (mashed eggplant, chopped tomato, chopped onion, chopped celery, margarine, bay leaf, seasoned shrimp) in a bowl.
- Mix well to incorporate all flavors.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle toasted bread crumbs on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or ricotta to the eggplant mixture. If you're looking for a lighter version, swap margarine for olive oil or a plant-based butter. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor. If you don't have shrimp, try adding cooked crab meat instead for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. You can serve it alongside a light seafood recipe, such as Shrimp Toast(Great For Unexpected Guests), for a delightful meal. For a complete dining experience, consider serving it with a chilled white wine or a crisp sparkling water.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Del Monico contains roughly 294 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen eggplant for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen eggplant, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before mashing. Frozen eggplant can sometimes be more watery, so pressing out excess moisture will help maintain the dish's texture.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
If you're not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute it with cooked crab meat or even diced chicken for a different flavor profile. Feel free to omit the protein entirely for a vegetarian option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the bread crumbs before baking to maintain their crunch. This makes it a great option for entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).