Sal'S Eggplant Parmigiana
A classic Italian eggplant dish featuring crispy fried slices layered with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dip sliced eggplant into beaten eggs, then into bread crumbs. Fry until golden brown on both sides.
- Layer the fried eggplant in a casserole dish.
- Cover with sliced or shredded mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce.
- Repeat the layers, ending with eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F, covered, for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider salting the eggplant slices and letting them sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing, which helps draw out moisture. You can substitute the mozzarella with provolone for a sharper flavor, or use whole wheat bread crumbs for added nutrition. Feel free to add layers of sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies, enhancing the dish's flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sal's Eggplant Parmigiana with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Pasta With Vodka Sauce for a hearty Italian feast. For a casual gathering, serve it with Italian Pizzelle Cookies(Recipe Makes Approximately 30 Cookies) for a delightful dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the eggplant parmigiana in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispness of the eggplant and melts the cheese perfectly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sal'S Eggplant Parmigiana contains roughly 661 calories, with 25g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1272mg per serving (55% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers of eggplant, mozzarella, and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This can save time and is great for meal prep.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, consider using a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals 1 egg). Alternatively, you can use unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer for a similar binding effect.
How do I know when the eggplant is cooked properly?
The eggplant should be golden brown and tender when fully cooked. If frying, ensure both sides are crispy, while in the oven it should be bubbly and hot throughout. A fork should easily pierce through the layers when it's done.
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).