Eggplant Napoli
Eggplant Napoli layers tender eggplant with savory tomato sauce and melted cheese, offering a hearty, flavorful vegetarian dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, saute chopped onion in peanut oil until translucent.
- Add tomato puree, water, salt, oregano, and pepper to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes to develop the sauce flavor.
- In a greased baking dish, alternate thin layers of sliced eggplant, tomato sauce, and half of the grated cheese, starting with eggplant and ending with tomato sauce.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Minutes before serving, sprinkle remaining grated cheese on top and continue baking until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
When preparing Eggplant Napoli, select firm, glossy eggplants for the best flavor and texture. If you want a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheese or substituting some of the cheese with a layer of sautéed spinach, similar to the Low-Fat Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups. For added depth, you can also incorporate garlic or fresh herbs like basil into the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Eggplant Napoli is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. For a side, consider serving it with Italian Water Ice for a refreshing finish. This dish is also great for meal prep and can be easily doubled for gatherings, making it an excellent choice for vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Eggplant Napoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps retain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Napoli contains roughly 168 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1415mg per serving (62% 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 a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for grated cheese, you can substitute it with mozzarella, provolone, or even a dairy-free alternative if you're looking for a vegan option. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to achieve that creamy texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Eggplant Napoli, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce. You can also serve it with a spicy marinara sauce on the side for those who prefer a kick in their meal.
Is it necessary to salt the eggplant before cooking?
Salting the eggplant before cooking is a great step to reduce bitterness and draw out excess moisture. Simply slice the eggplant, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry before layering in the dish for optimal flavor and texture.
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).