Elevate your Meatless Monday with Eggplant Parmesan

Meatless Monday has become a popular movement encouraging people to go meatless at least one day a week for the sake of personal and planetary health. If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meat-free meal to add to your menu, look no further than Eggplant Parmesan. This classic Italian dish is a delicious and hearty alternative to meat-based meals. Not only is it delicious, it also offers a host of health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the virtues of eggplant Parmesan and bring you a delicious recipe to elevate your Meatless Monday.

Health benefits of eggplant

Eggplant, also known as eggplant, is a versatile vegetable that is rich in nutrients and low in calories. It is an excellent source of dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals. Eggplant contains phytonutrients that have antioxidant properties and may benefit heart health. It also contains a high percentage of nasunin, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to protect cell membranes from damage.

It contains a high percentage of fiber, which aids in the digestion process and helps maintain the health of the digestive system

It contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, and potassium

Rich in antioxidants that may help protect against some diseases and promote overall health

Delicious eggplant parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a fun dish that combines the earthy flavor of eggplant with the richness of tomatoes and cheese. The dish usually consists of breaded and fried eggplant slices topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. They are then baked until golden and bubbly, resulting in a delicious, flavorful and satisfying dish.

One of the main features of eggplant parmesan is the way the eggplant is prepared. By roasting and cooking eggplant, you can achieve a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the vegetable. This preparation method adds another layer of flavor and depth to the dish.

A delicious recipe for eggplant parmesan

Here’s a simple recipe to help you prepare delicious Eggplant Parmesan for Meatless Monday:

ingredients:

2 large eggplants, cut into 1/2-inch circular slices

2 cups of bread crumbs

1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

3 scrambled eggs

2 cups marinara sauce

2 cups grated mozzarella cheese

A quarter cup of chopped fresh basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for frying

directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Place the eggplant slices on a paper towel and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Dry the slices with another paper towel.

In a flat dish, mix the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese together. Season with salt and pepper.

Dip each eggplant slice in the beaten egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing until it sticks.

In a large frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese melts and bubbles.

We take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Ways to upgrade eggplant parmesan

While the classic version of eggplant Parmesan is undoubtedly delicious, there are several ways to elevate this dish and add your own personal touch. Here are some ideas to consider:

Add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients

Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, to create a unique flavor

Incorporate fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary into your marinara sauce for more flavor.

Conclusion

Eggplant Parmesan is a great way to elevate your Meatless Monday and incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Not only are they delicious and satisfying, they also offer a host of health benefits. By using eggplant as the main ingredient, you can create a meal that is not only good for you, but also good for the planet. So, next time you’re planning your meatless Monday menu, consider preparing Eggplant Parmesan for a delicious and hearty meatless meal.