Kids Love It Eggplant
A kid-friendly eggplant dish featuring crispy coated slices topped with melted cheese, perfect for encouraging vegetable intake with appealing flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brush an unheated broiler pan with oil.
- Beat together the eggs and 2 teaspoons of oil.
- Dip the eggplant slices in the egg mixture, then coat with cheese and herb seasoned crumbs.
- Place the coated eggplant slices on the greased pan.
- Broil 4 inches from the heat for 2 minutes or until golden, then turn the slices.
- Broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle cheese on top and broil for 1 more minute until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh eggplant and slice it uniformly to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a healthier version, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternatives. You can also experiment with different cheeses for added flavor. If you're short on time, you can skip broiling and bake the eggplant at 400°F for about 15 minutes instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these eggplant slices as a delightful appetizer or a savory side dish. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad like Tim'S 5 Minute Salad or alongside grilled meats for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, enjoy them with a side of quinoa or a light pasta dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the eggplant soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kids Love It Eggplant contains roughly 146 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
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 other vegetables instead of eggplant?
Absolutely! Zucchini or squash can work well as substitutes. Simply slice them to the same thickness and follow the same preparation method. This makes the dish versatile and a great way to use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water or use a store-bought egg replacer. Additionally, replace the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative, or you can omit it entirely for a lighter dish.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
A variety of cheeses can enhance the flavor of the dish. Mozzarella or a mild cheddar work beautifully, but for a bit of tang, consider using feta or a sprinkle of Parmesan. Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste preferences.
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).