Nannie'S Eggplant Parmesan
Nannie's Eggplant Parmesan offers a hearty, flavorful vegetarian dish featuring tender eggplant baked in a rich tomato sauce with melted mozzarella cheese. The savory sauce, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese make it a comforting meal perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onion and garlic in vegetable oil.
- Add chopped tomatoes and tomato sauce to the sautéed onion and garlic.
- Add salt, basil, oregano, and sugar. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer the sauce for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you want to reduce moisture in the eggplant, slice and salt the eggplant before cooking, allowing it to drain for about 30 minutes. This helps to avoid a soggy dish. You can also substitute the Mozzarella cheese with a blend of other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Eggplant Parmesan with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, such as a Fresh Italian Pasta Salad, for a complete meal. Pair it with a light red wine to enhance the flavors of the dish. It also goes well with a side of noodles Alfredo for a comforting Italian dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Eggplant Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be aware it may lose some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nannie'S Eggplant Parmesan contains roughly 601 calories, with 30g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (128% of the Daily Value), calcium (128% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (95% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2605mg per serving (113% 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 this Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble the layers in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of eggplant?
If you don't have eggplant, zucchini or portobello mushrooms can serve as excellent substitutes. Both vegetables will provide a similar texture. Slice them thickly and follow the same preparation method for the sauce and layering.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Eggplant Parmesan is a great vegetarian option, featuring wholesome ingredients like eggplant, tomatoes, and cheese. It's perfect for anyone looking for hearty vegetarian recipes that are filling and flavorful.
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).