Baked eggplants

Baked eggplants

Baked eggplants are a healthy and delicious dish.  They are sliced, seasoned with olive oil, herbs and spices, then baked until tender and golden.  They are an excellent vegetarian option full of flavor and versatility in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or any cheese you prefer)

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (can be homemade or purchased)

• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella (optional)

These baked eggplants are delicious as a side dish or as a main dish.

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).

2. Wash the eggplants and cut them into thin slices, approximately 1/2 cm thick.  You can leave the skin on or peel them, depending on your preference.

3. Place the eggplant slices in a colander and sprinkle salt over them.  Let the eggplants rest for about 15-20 minutes.  This will help remove excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplants.

4. While the eggplants rest, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add the minced garlic and sauté for a few minutes until fragrant.

5. Rinse the eggplant slices with cold water to remove salt and dry well with kitchen paper.

6. In a large bowl, toss the eggplants with the sautéed olive oil and garlic, black pepper, oregano and thyme (if desired).

7. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.

8. Arrange the eggplant slices in the dish in an even layer on top of the tomato sauce.

9. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the eggplants.

10. Repeat the process with another layer of tomato sauce, eggplant and Parmesan cheese until you have used all the eggplant.

11. If you wish, you can add a layer of grated mozzarella on top for a creamier and gratin touch.

12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the eggplants for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

13. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.  Enjoy your baked eggplants!

This is a basic recipe, but you can customize it by adding other herbs, like fresh basil, or even some black olives or sautéed mushrooms if you like.  Enjoy!