Couscous Eggplant and Tomato Gratin: A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight
Couscous Eggplant and Tomato Gratin is a hearty and satisfying casserole that layers grilled eggplant, homemade tomato sauce, and fluffy couscous, all topped with a golden crust of Feta cheese and breadcrumbs. Infused with the warm, aromatic flavors of Harissa paste, this dish delivers a gentle heat that elevates its comforting essence. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite, this vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired gratin will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
A versatile recipe, it accommodates dietary preferences and can be adjusted for spice levels. While Harissa adds a zesty kick, feel free to omit it for a milder flavor. Fresh, homemade tomato sauce (or passata) is the key to making this dish truly shine, offering the rich depth of flavor you crave in a classic French casserole.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Couscous | 1 cup |
| Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Harissa Paste (or sauce) | 2 teaspoons |
| Japanese Eggplant | 1, sliced |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Feta Cheese (crumbled) | 2 tablespoons |
| Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs | 2 tablespoons |
| Mint Leaves (chopped) | As required for garnish |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Eggplant:
Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil onto the pan, then arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer. Grill the eggplant slices for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they’re lightly browned and tender. Be sure not to overcook them. Once done, remove the slices from the pan and set them aside. -
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to preheat while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. -
Cook the Couscous:
Prepare the couscous according to the instructions on the package. Once it’s ready, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. -
Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the roasted tomato pasta sauce with the Harissa paste. Stir well to incorporate, ensuring the paste is evenly mixed through the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt if using passata or a milder tomato base. -
Assemble the Gratin:
Lightly grease a 7-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. Spread the couscous evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a solid base. Pour the tomato-Harissa sauce over the couscous, spreading it into an even layer. Arrange the grilled eggplant slices on top of the sauce, covering the entire surface. -
Top the Gratin:
Sprinkle the crumbled Feta cheese evenly over the eggplant slices, followed by a generous layer of whole wheat breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will help create a crispy, golden crust as the gratin bakes. -
Bake the Gratin:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the Feta cheese is starting to melt. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, as you want a crispy top but not a dried-out interior. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the gratin is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped mint leaves to add a burst of freshness. Serve immediately, enjoying the comforting layers of couscous, eggplant, and tomato.
Serving Suggestions:
- This Couscous Eggplant and Tomato Gratin pairs beautifully with a light salad of greens and citrus, or even a side of garlic bread to soak up the tomato sauce.
- For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken or chickpeas on top of the couscous before baking.
- This dish can also be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick dinner.
Tips:
- Harissa Paste: If you don’t have Harissa paste on hand, feel free to substitute it with a combination of chili flakes, cumin, and paprika for a similar level of heat and depth.
- Eggplant Variations: If Japanese eggplant isn’t available, you can use regular globe eggplant, but make sure to salt it first to remove any bitterness before grilling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Vegetarian and Flavorful: This dish offers a delightful vegetarian alternative to heavy casseroles, full of fresh, vibrant flavors.
- Comforting and Hearty: Couscous forms a perfect base that’s both light and filling, while the roasted eggplant adds a rich, smoky flavor.
- Customizable: You can adjust the heat with Harissa, or skip it entirely, and you can even make this dish vegan by omitting the Feta cheese or replacing it with a plant-based alternative.
Couscous Eggplant and Tomato Gratin is the ultimate comfort food for those who love Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a bit of spice. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving it at a gathering, this gratin will be sure to leave everyone satisfied and asking for more!
