Cheesy Eggplant Florentine (Melanzane Fiorentina)
Indulging in the flavors of Italy often invites a delightful journey through creamy, cheesy dishes that charm the palate, and Cheesy Eggplant Florentine, or Melanzane Fiorentina, stands as a testament to this culinary tradition. This dish, characterized by layers of succulent eggplant and melted cheese, creates a wonderful contrast of textures and tastes. Perfect as a main course or a side to complement roasted meats or chicken, it can also serve as a delightful appetizer for gatherings. Originating from the esteemed Nitty Gritty Italian Cookbook, this recipe is simple yet satisfying, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Recipe Overview
| Name | Cheesy Eggplant Florentine (Melanzane Fiorentina) |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Prep Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Description | Eggplant with cheese baked to produce a creamy taste sensation! Good by itself or with roasted meat or chicken. On occasions, can be served as an appetizer. |
| Recipe Category | Vegetable |
| Keywords | European, Savory, Oven, < 4 Hours, Easy, Inexpensive |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 488.2 |
| Total Fat | 35.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 59.7 mg |
| Sodium | 799.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 24.7 g |
| Fiber | 7.5 g |
| Sugars | 7.7 g |
| Protein | 20.5 g |
| Servings | 6 |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplants | 2 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Flour | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 1 ½ tablespoons |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 ½ cups |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
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Prepare the Eggplant: Start by slicing the eggplants into half-inch thick rounds, ensuring even sizes for consistent cooking.
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Salt the Eggplant: Generously sprinkle salt over both sides of the eggplant slices, allowing the salt to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Arrange the salted slices on several layers of paper towels to catch any released liquid.
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Weigh the Eggplant: To expedite the draining process, place a pastry board over the eggplant slices and weigh it down with large cans of juice or fruit. Let it sit for about an hour. This step is crucial as it enhances the texture and flavor of the final dish.
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Rinse and Dry: After the hour has elapsed, thoroughly rinse the eggplant slices under cold running water to remove excess salt. Drain them on fresh paper towels, then pat them completely dry to ensure a perfect sautéing experience.
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Dust with Flour: Lightly dust each eggplant slice with flour, ensuring they are evenly coated. This flour will aid in creating a golden crust when sautéed.
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Sauté the Eggplant: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat. Once hot, add the floured eggplant slices in batches, sautéing them until they are golden brown on both sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once done, transfer the sautéed slices to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
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Layer the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a well-oiled 13×9-inch baking pan, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of sautéed eggplant slices, followed by a generous spoonful of tomato sauce, a sprinkling of mozzarella cheese, and a few pinches of dried basil. Repeat this process until you have three layers, reserving some mozzarella cheese for the topping.
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Top and Bake: Once layered, finish with the reserved mozzarella cheese on top. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese has developed a slight golden-brown crust.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This Cheesy Eggplant Florentine can be enjoyed warm as a delectable main dish or as a satisfying side.
This recipe not only highlights the delicious versatility of eggplant but also ensures that every bite is filled with creamy cheese and aromatic herbs, promising a rich experience that’s sure to please anyone at your table. Whether you choose to enjoy it on its own or alongside your favorite protein, this Cheesy Eggplant Florentine is bound to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
