Italian style eggplant

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season and Bake:
   • Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil. Sprinkle with black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder.
   • Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
3. Layer and Bake:
   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange a layer of eggplant slices over the sauce.
   • Top with more marinara sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
4. Final Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes if desired.
   • Serve warm as a main dish or a side.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 10g

This Italian Style Eggplant is a delicious and hearty dish that captures the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. Enjoy!