Tony'S Eggplant Parmesan
Tony's Eggplant Parmesan features tender eggplant slices layered with savory tomato sauce, melted cheeses, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting Italian-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and chopped mushrooms in oil until glistening.
- Add canned tomatoes and their juice to the pan.
- Season the sauce with garlic salt, basil, sugar, and salt.
- Simmer the sauce until the tomatoes are cooked down and the juice has evaporated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, try breading the eggplant slices with seasoned breadcrumbs instead of flour. If you're short on time, use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making your own. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor, so feel free to substitute dried basil with fresh basil for a more vibrant taste. Also, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Tony's Eggplant Parmesan is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside Spaghetti Bordelaise. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and fresh basil for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the eggplant.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tony'S Eggplant Parmesan contains roughly 1230 calories, with 33g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (66% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2048mg per serving (89% 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 layers and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Parmesan, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a great option for a dairy-free alternative. Alternatively, pecorino Romano can be used for a similar taste profile, though it will be saltier.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Tony's Eggplant Parmesan gluten-free, simply replace the flour used for breading with a gluten-free flour or a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative. Ensure any canned tomatoes and sauces are also labeled gluten-free, and enjoy this dish without worry.
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).