Eggplant Bake Recipe
A delicious one-dish meal perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something comforting yet nutritious, this Eggplant Bake combines tender layers of eggplant, savory tomato paste, and creamy cottage cheese, all baked to perfection with a golden cheese topping. This dish is a crowd-pleaser with its wholesome ingredients, providing a balanced mix of fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked brown rice | 1 1/2 cups |
| Eggplant | 1 large |
| Tomato paste | 1 can (6 oz) |
| Cottage cheese | 1 cup |
| Plain yogurt | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Dried basil leaves | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Dried oregano leaves | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup shredded |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Margarine | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 241.2 |
| Fat Content | 9.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 26.6 mg |
| Sodium | 481.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 28.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.7 g |
| Sugars | 6.6 g |
| Protein | 12.1 g |
Instructions:
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Prepare the rice base: Begin by spreading the cooked brown rice evenly in a greased 12×8 inch baking dish. A quick spray of non-stick cooking spray works great for easy cleanup.
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Layer the eggplant: Slice the eggplant into rounds and layer them evenly over the rice. Make sure the eggplant slices are well-spread to cover the rice thoroughly.
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Make the sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the tomato paste, cottage cheese, plain yogurt, water, dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder, and garlic salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
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Assemble the bake: Pour the prepared sauce over the eggplant, ensuring that the sauce is spread evenly across all the layers. This will help to keep the eggplant moist and flavorful during baking.
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Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce layer. This will melt beautifully as the dish bakes, creating a golden and cheesy top.
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Dot with butter: Place small pats of butter and margarine over the top of the cheese. This will add richness and flavor to the bake.
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Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the dish for 30 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the cheese has melted into a delicious golden crust. You can check the doneness by poking a fork through the eggplant, which should feel soft.
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Serve and enjoy: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This Eggplant Bake makes for a hearty main dish or a flavorful side. Enjoy!
Recipe Overview:
- Category: One Dish Meal
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Rating: 4/5 based on 2 reviews
This Eggplant Bake is an ideal dish for those who enjoy the simplicity of an easy-to-make, one-dish meal without sacrificing flavor. The combination of creamy cheese, savory herbs, and tender eggplant makes this recipe a satisfying meal for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. It’s also a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet without compromising on taste.
Keywords: Brown Rice, Rice, Vegetable, < 60 Mins, Oven
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for guests, this Eggplant Bake will surely be a hit. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for future meals. It’s a perfect dish for meal prep or a cozy weeknight meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the joy of sharing this recipe with your loved ones!
