Eggplant Regina
Eggplant Regina is a savory baked dish featuring roasted eggplant, fresh tomatoes, and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown the eggplant slices in hot oil.
- Layer the browned eggplant in a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Add layers of sliced tomatoes on top of the eggplant.
- Sprinkle the tomatoes with a little ground marjoram and onion powder.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the layered vegetables.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers to the layers. If you want to reduce calories, you can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a lighter cheese, or even a dairy-free alternative. To enhance the dish, you can also layer in some fresh herbs like basil or oregano, similar to the flavors found in Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Eggplant Regina as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. It pairs beautifully with side dishes like Broiled Basil Eggplant or Feta Stuffed Mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of quinoa or rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in an oven preheated to 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Regina contains roughly 455 calories, with 12g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% 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 different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just make sure to double-check the labels on any pre-packaged items you might use.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to slice them thinly so they cook evenly along with the eggplant.
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).