Spanish Eggplant
Spanish Eggplant is a savory baked dish combining tender eggplant, cheesy topping, and a touch of tomatoes and onion, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the eggplant and cut it into thin slices.
- Cook the eggplant slices in salted boiling water with chopped onion until transparent.
- Drain well and beat the eggplant slightly with a fork.
- In a bowl, mix the beaten eggs, crushed saltine crackers, salt, pepper, and 3/4 cup of grated cheese.
- Add the cooked eggplant and onion mixture to the egg mixture and combine.
- Pour the mixture into a well-buttered casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or bell peppers to the eggplant mixture. If you want to reduce calories, substitute half of the cheese with a low-fat variety. To make this dish vegetarian, ensure that the saltine crackers do not contain any animal products. Remember to press the eggplant slices after boiling to remove excess moisture for a better texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish Eggplant pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread or with a side of rice for a hearty dinner. For a delightful contrast, consider serving with a dollop of yogurt or a light vinaigrette. It also makes a great side dish for roasted meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain the crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Eggplant contains roughly 1055 calories, with 20g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 mixture a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly, so adjust the baking time as needed.
What can I substitute for Ro-Tel tomatoes?
If you don't have Ro-Tel tomatoes, you can use any canned diced tomatoes and add a pinch of chili powder or diced jalapeños for a similar flavor. Fresh tomatoes can also work well; just ensure they are peeled and chopped finely.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the saltine crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just make sure to check the labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free, especially if you have a serious allergy.
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).