Eggplant Parmesan(Yields 6 Servings)
Eggplant Parmesan features tender fried eggplant rolls filled with melted mozzarella, topped with rich tomato sauce and Parmesan, offering a comforting, cheesy Italian classic suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the skin off the eggplant.
- Slice the eggplant lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices.
- Sprinkle each slice with salt and let stand at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours.
- Wash each slice with water to remove excess salt and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Dip each slice first into beaten eggs, then into bread crumbs.
- Fry each slice until both sides are golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Cut 1/2-inch strips of mozzarella cheese and place a strip at the end of a fried eggplant slice.
- Roll the eggplant around the cheese strip and place in a single layer in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Pour 2 to 3 cups of tomato sauce over the eggplant rolls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake covered at 350°F for 30 to 60 minutes until the sauce bubbles.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to the bread crumbs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour. If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the eggplant slices instead of frying them. For added richness, try using a mix of mozzarella and provolone cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Eggplant Parmesan with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Lemony Pasta for a well-rounded meal. For a complete Italian experience, consider offering a light dessert like Biscotti Di Mamma("S" Cookies) after the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be aware that the texture may vary slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Parmesan(Yields 6 Servings) contains roughly 672 calories, with 25g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1304mg per serving (57% 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 make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the eggplant rolls and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella, provolone or fontina cheese can be excellent substitutes. They melt well and provide a similar creamy texture. For a sharper flavor, try adding some aged cheddar.
Is it necessary to salt the eggplant?
Salting the eggplant helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness, making it taste better. However, if you're short on time, you can skip this step and still achieve a delicious result.
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).