This stuffed eggplant recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender eggplant with a flavorful filling of bell pepper, tomatoes, chives, garlic, and two types of cheese. It’s a perfect main dish or side that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Eggplant:
- Eggplants: 3 pieces (800g)
- Vegetable oil: for drizzling
- Basil: for sprinkling
For the Filling:
- Paprika: 1, diced
- Tomatoes: 2, diced
- Chives: chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Mozzarella cheese: 100 grams, grated
- Feta cheese: 100 grams, crumbled
- Vegetable oil: 50 ml
- Pepper: to taste
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Eggplants:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Prepare Eggplants:
- Wash the eggplants and pat them dry.
- Beat the eggplants gently to soften them. Make sure they become tender but not mushy.
- Make Cuts:
- Make a longitudinal cut in each eggplant to create a pocket for the filling.
Prepare the Filling:
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a bowl, mix the diced paprika, diced tomatoes, chopped chives, and minced garlic.
- Add the grated mozzarella and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle with 50 ml of vegetable oil.
- Season with pepper and salt to taste.
- Mix well until all ingredients are well combined.
Assemble and Bake:
- Stuff Eggplants:
- Fill each eggplant with the prepared filling, making sure to evenly distribute it.
- Drizzle with Oil:
- Place the stuffed eggplants on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle the tops with a little more vegetable oil.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finishing Touch:
- Sprinkle with Basil:
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle the stuffed eggplants with fresh basil.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these stuffed eggplants as a main dish with a side of quinoa or rice.
- They also make a great side dish for grilled meats or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to beat the eggplants gently to avoid breaking them.
- Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the filling for extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Eggplants, tomatoes, and bell peppers are high in vitamins and antioxidants.
- High in Protein: The cheese adds a good source of protein to the dish.
- Low Carb: This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: A delightful combination of tender eggplant and cheesy, veggie-filled stuffing.
- Nutritious: Packed with nutrients and protein.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with readily available ingredients.
Conclusion:
These stuffed eggplants are a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty and healthy meal. Perfect as a main dish or a side, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try them out and share your thoughts in the comments. Bon appétit, friends!