Ingredients:
Salt and Black Pepper to taste
1 Large Eggplant
1 Onion, chopped
3 Cloves Garlic, minced
1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
3 Small Tomatoes, chopped
Fresh Basil, chopped (amount to your taste)
1 Yellow Bell Pepper, chopped
3 tablespoons Tomato Paste
chopped (amount to your taste)
Fresh Dill, chopped (amount to your taste)
100g Grated Cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or your favorite)
100g Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
PREPARATION:
Prepare the eggplant: Slice the eggplant into rounds or cubes, whichever you prefer. Thicker slices will take a little longer to bake, so keep that in mind. Lightly brush or drizzle the eggplant with to coat them for roasting. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
Preheat the oven: Get your oven started by preheating it to 180°C (350°F). This ensures everything cooks evenly.
Bake the eggplant: Place the seasoned eggplant slices on a baking sheet and pop them in the Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the eggplant slices become tender.
Sauté the vegetables: While the eggplant bakes, heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they soften and become fragrant. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
Add the bell peppers: Once the onion and garlic are softened, add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers to the pan. Cook them for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften slightly.
Combine the sauce: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and chopped fresh basil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
Assemble the gratin: In a baking dish, create a layer with the pre-cooked eggplant slices. Top them with the flavorful vegetable sauce you just prepared.
Bake until bubbly: Place the assembled gratin back in the and bake for 20-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly.
Cheese time! Finally, sprinkle the combined grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or your choice) and shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the gratin. The cheese will create a delicious and visually appealing topping.
Serve and enjoy! Once the gratin is cooked through, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish it with a sprinkle of and dill for an extra touch of flavor and color. Enjoy this warm and comforting vegetarian dish!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Cheesy Eggplant Gratin as a main course with a side salad for a complete vegetarian meal.
It can also be enjoyed as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pasta.
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a quick and delicious lunch the next day.
Cooking Tips:
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for a longer time after adding the tomatoes.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Goat cheese, feta cheese, or Gruyere would all be delicious alternatives.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing the vegetables. This will ensure they cook evenly and don’t steam.
To make this recipe vegan, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and omit the honey (if using).
Nutritional Benefits:
Eggplant is a low-calorie vegetable that’s a good source of fiber and antioxidants. This recipe is packed with colorful vegetables, providing vitamins and essential nutrients. Cheese adds protein and calcium to the dish.
Storage:
Leftover gratin can be stored in an in the for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Easy to prepare: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Vegetarian-friendly: This gratin is a great option for vegetarians and anyone looking to incorporate more meatless meals into their diet.
Flavorful and versatile: The combination of tender eggplant, savory tomato sauce, and melty cheese creates a delicious and satisfying dish.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, cheeses, and herbs to personalize the recipe to your taste.
Hearty and comforting: This Cheesy Eggplant Gratin is a warm and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Conclusion
So ditch the takeout menus and whip up this delightful Cheesy Eggplant Gratin! It’s a delicious and easy recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite. With its combination of fresh vegetables, flavorful sauce, and gooey cheese, this vegetarian bake is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.