Cheesy Eggplant (Aubergine) Pesto Stacks
Description
Delightfully crafted with eggplant taking center stage, these Cheesy Eggplant Pesto Stacks are a fantastic way to elevate this versatile vegetable while utilizing any leftover pesto you may have on hand. With a simple preparation that primarily involves allowing the eggplant to drain its naturally bitter juices, this dish results in beautifully layered stacks that are both visually appealing and satisfying to the palate. Each bite is an exquisite combination of flavors and textures, making this a delightful addition to any vegetable-centric meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplant (Aubergine) | 1 large |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Pesto Sauce | 4 teaspoons |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 4 tablespoons |
| Fresh Parmesan Cheese | 4 tablespoons |
| Romano Cheese | 4 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 138.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 27.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1436.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 7.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Protein | 9.8 g |
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 35 minutes (includes standing time for eggplant)
Instructions
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Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring that it reaches the desired temperature for optimal baking. As the oven warms, prepare a shallow baking pan by lightly oiling it to prevent sticking.
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Next, take the eggplant and cut it crosswise into twelve slices, each approximately one-third of an inch thick. Discard the ends of the eggplant to create uniform slices, which will ensure even cooking.
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Once sliced, arrange the eggplant in a single layer on top of paper towels. This step is crucial as it allows excess moisture and the bitter juices of the eggplant to be absorbed.
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Evenly sprinkle salt over both sides of the eggplant slices, then cover them with another layer of paper towels. This method will help to draw out the bitterness from the eggplant while also enhancing its flavor. Let the eggplant stand for about 30 minutes, giving it ample time to drain.
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After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices thoroughly to remove the salt, and then gently pat them dry with fresh paper towels. This will help to ensure that the eggplant does not become too salty and is ready to absorb the delicious flavors of the pesto and cheeses.
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In the prepared baking pan, arrange four eggplant slices in a single layer. Using a teaspoon, spread one teaspoon of pesto evenly across the surface of each slice. The pesto will provide a rich, herbaceous flavor that complements the eggplant beautifully.
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Following the pesto layer, sprinkle two tablespoons of mozzarella cheese over the pesto on each slice. This cheese will melt and create a luscious, gooey texture that adds to the overall richness of the dish.
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Continue layering the remaining eggplant slices, repeating the steps of spreading pesto and sprinkling mozzarella until all the ingredients are used. Each stack should have a lovely balance of flavors, making each bite memorable.
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To finish, sprinkle one tablespoon of either parmesan or romano cheese evenly over each stack, adding a touch of savory depth. This final cheese layer will create a golden, crispy topping as it bakes.
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Carefully place the baking pan in the middle of the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the cheeses are bubbly and lightly browned. The aroma of melting cheese and roasted eggplant will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby.
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Once baked to perfection, remove the Cheesy Eggplant Pesto Stacks from the oven, and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These stacks can be enjoyed warm as a side dish or even as a vegetarian main course, providing a delightful experience that highlights the humble eggplant in a truly delectable way.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Eggplant Pesto Stacks are not only a fantastic way to savor the flavors of eggplant, but they also offer a creative solution for using up leftover pesto. With their delicious combination of textures and flavors, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal, these stacks will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Keywords
Cheesy Eggplant, Eggplant Pesto, Vegetable Recipe, Quick Recipe, Pesto Stacks, Vegetarian Dish, Easy Eggplant Recipe, Oven-Baked Eggplant
