Acadia’s Eggplant Casserole is a flavorful and rich dish that features layers of eggplant, vegetables, and cheese, baked to perfection. Its history is not widely documented, but it likely draws inspiration from various Mediterranean and Italian cuisines. Given your interest in collecting recipes and your preference for rich white-style dishes, this recipe might be a great addition to your collection.
Components:
- Eggplant: Sliced into rounds and often salted to remove excess moisture.
- Vegetables: Tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers are commonly used.
- Cheese: Mozzarella or Parmesan cheese is often layered between the vegetables.
- Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes add flavor.
Steps to Prepare Acadia’s Eggplant Casserole:
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Prep the Eggplant:
- Slice the eggplant into rounds of about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Lay the slices on a paper towel, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture and bitterness. Pat dry with another paper towel.
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Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add canned diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to develop the flavors.
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Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce.
- Arrange a layer of eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Repeat layers: sauce, eggplant, cheese, until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
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Bake:
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Time Needed to Prepare:
- Prepping the eggplant: 30 minutes
- Making the tomato sauce: 30 minutes
- Assembling the casserole: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours (including prep time and baking)
Enjoy the delicious Acadia’s Eggplant Casserole as a satisfying main dish or a delightful side dish. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a wonderful addition to any rich white-style cuisine collection!
Unfortunately, I don’t have access to real-time data and nutritional databases to provide you with specific nutrition facts for “Acadia’s Eggplant Casserole.” However, I can give you some general information about the potential nutritional benefits of the key components in the dish:
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Eggplant: Eggplant is low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It contains antioxidants that may contribute to overall health.
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Vegetables: Tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They provide essential nutrients and contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dish.
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Cheese: The type and amount of cheese used in the casserole will influence its nutritional content. Cheese is a source of protein and calcium, but it can also be high in saturated fat and sodium. Opting for lower-fat cheeses or using smaller amounts can help manage calorie and fat intake.
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Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes add flavor without significant calories. They may have potential health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Since specific nutritional information can vary based on ingredient quantities and preparation methods, I recommend using a nutrition calculator or consulting a registered dietitian for accurate information tailored to your recipe and portion sizes.
