Eggplant Lasagna: a Veggie-Packed Twist on a Classic

Right then, let's dive into this eggplant lasagna shall we? honestly, have you ever wondered what to do with those massive eggplants lurking in your fridge? well, i've got just the ticket.

This recipe is proper lush, honestly.

Eggplant Lasagna: A Veggie Packed Twist on a Classic

Forget your typical heavy lasagna. we're talking about an eggplant lasagna , a lighter, brighter, and frankly, more interesting take on the italian classic.

Think southern italy sunshine meets a family sunday roast. this dish is surprisingly easy, it will only take you around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and can serve 6-8 people.

Why This Eggplant Lasagna Recipe is The One

This eggplant recipes lasagna isn't just tasty, it's got some serious health benefits. packing a good dose of fibre and vitamins from the hidden eggplant recipes , it’s a sneaky way to get your five-a-day.

Plus, it's perfect for a vegetarian dinner party. honestly, this lasagna with eggplant is guaranteed to impress. what makes it special? i've got a secret ingredient, a touch of nutmeg in the ricotta.

It gives it a warmth that really sings. this is one of the best eggplant cheese recipes you will ever make!.

Ingredients: Let's Get Started

Alright, let’s gather our bits and bobs. don't skimp on quality, it makes all the difference. we're talking fresh herbs, good tomatoes.

We are going to need eggplant, for sure! for this baked eggplant lasagna , you need to keep in mind the following:

• 2 large eggplants (about 2 lbs / 900g total), sliced lengthwise into 1/4 inch (6mm) thick planks
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil

Right! That's enough to get us started. Next up, we'll tackle that scrumptious tomato sauce! Let's get cracking! Oh my gosh, this is so good!

Right then, let's talk ingredients and kit for this eggplant lasagna . honestly, it's easier than you think! forget slaving away for hours.

This is proper comfort food, made simple. we are going to make some eggplant recipes lasagna .

Ingredients: The Star Performers

First, the players. We’re making lasagna with eggplant , so eggplant is the star.

Main Ingredients:

• Eggplant: 2 large ones. About 2 lbs (or 900g ). Long slices are key here, about 1/4 inch ( 6mm ) thick. Quality check : you want firm eggplants, no bruises. A good eggplant is key for all good eggplant cheese recipes .
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup ( 60ml ), plus extra for drizzling.
• Kosher Salt: 1 tbsp ( 15ml ) for drawing out moisture. Don't skip this, trust me!

Sauce It Up!

• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp ( 30ml ).
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. I use more, I love garlic!
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can ( 28oz/794g ).
• Tomato Sauce: 1 can ( 15oz/425g ).
• Dried Oregano: 1 tsp ( 5ml ).
• Dried Basil: 1/2 tsp ( 2.5ml ).
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 tsp ( 1.25ml ) (optional, for a kick).
• Sugar: 1 tbsp ( 15ml ) (optional, balances the acid).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, obviously.

Ricotta Dream:

• Ricotta Cheese: 15 oz ( 425g ). Whole milk, please!
• Egg: 1 large, beaten.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup ( 30g ), grated.
• Fresh Basil: 2 tbsp , chopped (or 2 tsp dried).

Cheese, Please!

• Mozzarella Cheese: 8 oz ( 225g ), shredded.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish, if you’re feeling fancy.

Seasoning Notes: The Spice of Life

Okay, so the secret to a great eggplant lasagna isn’t just eggplant. It’s the sauce. Don't be afraid of flavour enhancers.

• Spice Combo : Oregano and basil are your mates here. They're essential.
• Aromatics : Garlic, obviously. But a bay leaf simmering in the sauce? Chefs kiss.
• Substitutions : No fresh basil? Dried will do. But honestly, try to find some fresh. If you are looking for healthy dinner recipes eggplant the best choice are those with few ingredients.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

Right, you don't need a fancy chef's kitchen for this. Simple does it!

• Baking Sheet: For the eggplant.
• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For the sauce.
• 9x13 inch Baking Dish: Essential! This baked eggplant lasagna is best when baked in a nice casserole dish.

Alright, that's the gear. Now, let's get cooking! Stay tuned to find more of what can i make with eggplant

I once tried to make this eggplant lasagna without salting the eggplant first. big mistake! the whole thing was soggy.

Learn from my mistakes, people! this is one of those hidden eggplant recipes that is so simple but is packed full of flavor! for a perfect dinner with eggplant , serve with a nice glass of red wine.

If you are looking for an egg plant recipes dinner , look no more.

Right then, let's dive into making the ultimate eggplant lasagna . honestly, who needs pasta when you've got tender eggplant cheese recipes taking centre stage? it’s a cracking way to sneak in some extra veggies, making it one of those sneaky hidden eggplant recipes the whole family will love.

Plus, it's a lighter alternative to traditional lasagna, perfect for those trying to be a bit healthier. thinking about what can i make with eggplant ? this, my friend, is it.

Cooking Method: Eggplant Lasagna A Veggie Packed Dream

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

Alright, first things first, mise en place , yeah? slice those 2 large eggplants into 1/4 inch planks. pop 'em on a baking sheet, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of salt, and let them sweat it out for 30 minutes .

This bit's key gets rid of the bitterness. then, rinse 'em off and pat 'em dry. for the sauce, chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic .

Sorted. now, safety. don't be a numpty - watch your fingers when slicing!

step-by-step Process: Let's Get Cooking!

1. Eggplant Prep: Brush the eggplant slices with 1/4 cup of olive oil. Either grill, bake, or pan-fry until tender.
2. Sauce Sensation: In a pan with 2 tablespoons olive oil, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Then, bung in the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, red pepper flakes (if you like a kick), salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon sugar if your tomatoes are a bit acidic. Simmer for 15- 20 minutes .
3. Ricotta Magic: In a bowl, mix 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1 large egg , 1/4 cup Parmesan, 2 tablespoons chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Layering Time: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Start layering: eggplant, ricotta mix, sauce, and 8 ounces mozzarella. Repeat!
5. Bake it Up: Bake in a preheated oven at 375° F ( 190° C) for about 45 minutes , or until golden brown and bubbly. Visual cue for doneness? It's got that molten cheese and looks damn delicious.
6. Rest & Relax: Let it sit for 10- 15 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Lasagna

• Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the eggplant it'll steam, not brown. I messed that up the first time I made lasagna with eggplant , honestly.
• If you are looking for some healthy dinner recipes eggplant , then add extra veggies between layers.
• Want to prep ahead? Assemble the baked eggplant lasagna a day before and bake when needed. Boom!

Honestly, this eggplant lasagna is such a winner for dinner with eggplant . it's also a brilliant option when looking for egg plant recipes dinner .

It's a delicious, and satisfying eggplant recipe lasagna , and i reckon you'll love it. now, go on, give it a bash!

Right, let's talk all things eggplant lasagna ! honestly, sometimes the best recipes are the ones you tweak to make your own.

So, before you dive in, here are some notes to help you nail this veggie packed version of the classic.

Serving Up Deliciousness: Presentation & Pairings

Okay, so you've baked this beauty. How do we make it look and taste incredible?

• Plating and Presentation Ideas: Let it rest, yeah? A good 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. It helps it hold its shape. A sprinkle of fresh basil is always a winner. For a bit of rustic charm, serve straight from the baking dish!
• Complementary Sides or Beverages: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is banging. And garlic bread? Always a yes. If you're feeling fancy, a nice glass of Chianti will go down a treat. It is an Eggplant Cheese Recipes , after all!

Keeping it Fresh: Storage Savvy

Knowing how to store your baked eggplant lasagna is key for leftovers. No one wants a soggy disaster!

• Refrigeration Guidelines: Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and stick it in the fridge. It'll be good for 3-4 days.
• Freezing Options (if applicable): You can freeze this! Cut into portions, wrap well in cling film, and then foil. Should be good for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Instructions: Reheat in the oven at 180C (350F) until heated through. Or, if you're impatient like me, the microwave will do the job.

Making it Your Own: Tasty Variations

Feeling adventurous? Let's riff on this lasagna with eggplant recipe!

• 1-2 Dietary Adaptations: Going gluten-free? Use gluten-free eggplant recipes lasagna pasta sheets if you want the lasagna with pasta, or just stick to more hidden eggplant recipes ! dairy-free? Cashew ricotta is your new best friend.
• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: Courgettes in summer are a great addition. Or some roasted squash in autumn. Use healthy dinner recipes eggplant !

Nutrition Lowdown: Goodness Inside

Alright, let's keep it simple. This dinner with eggplant is packed with veggies, so you're getting plenty of fiber and vitamins.

• Simplified Nutrition Information: Loads of fiber, some protein from the cheese, and vitamins from the eggplant. The sauce adds more goodness, too.
• Key Health Benefits: It's a good way to sneak veggies into your diet, even if you don't love them. Plus, it's lower in carbs than a traditional Eggplant Recipes Lasagna , and it has some Egg Plant Recipes Dinner !

Honestly, this eggplant lasagna is a crowd pleaser. don't be afraid to experiment, and have fun with it. you've got this! now get cooking! i have found many amazing what can i make with eggplant tips over the years, it is a versatile food.

Enjoy your eggplant recipes lasagna !