Baked Eggplant with Cheddar and Herbs

This delicious baked eggplant dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The eggplant is first salted to draw out excess moisture, then layered with tomatoes, peppers, and a mix of savory spices. Topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying and hearty dish. The combination of fresh herbs like parsley and green onions adds a burst of freshness, while sesame seeds give a delightful crunch. Whether served as a main or a side dish, this baked eggplant is sure to become a favorite!

Preparation Time

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 eggplant
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 4 eggs

• 1 pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste

• Ground red pepper, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• A bunch of parsley, chopped

• 5-6 sprigs of green onions, chopped
• Butter, for greasing the pan
• Sesame seeds, for topping
• 100 grams cheddar cheese, grated

Method

1. Prepare the eggplant:
   Slice the eggplant into rounds or lengthwise, depending on your preference. Sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture and reduce bitterness. After 10 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Prepare the filling:
   While the eggplant is resting, chop the tomato, pepper, garlic, parsley, and green onions. In a bowl, combine the tomato, chopped pepper, garlic, parsley, and green onions. Season the mixture with salt, ground red pepper, and black pepper to taste.

1. Assemble the dish:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter. Arrange the eggplant slices in the dish, layering them neatly. Spoon the prepared vegetable mixture on top of the eggplant slices, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake the dish:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This will soften the eggplant and allow the flavors to meld.
3. Add cheese and sesame:
   After 25 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top of the baked vegetables. Add sesame seeds for a bit of crunch. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve:
   Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with extra fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this flavorful, cheesy baked eggplant dish!

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 15g

• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 500mg

The Origins and Popularity of Eggplant Dishes
Eggplant, also known as aubergine in many parts of the world, is a staple in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines. Its ability to absorb flavors and its versatility make it a favorite in various dishes, from stews and curries to bakes and fries. The combination of eggplant with cheese and fresh herbs is popular in Mediterranean cooking, where ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and fresh vegetables come together to create dishes that are both satisfying and full of flavor. The popularity of baked eggplant dishes has spread worldwide, as the vegetable is a great alternative to meat in vegetarian meals. It is loved for its savory, umami flavor and soft texture when cooked.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked eggplant dish is comforting and full of flavor. The eggplant becomes tender and creamy, while the vegetables add freshness and richness. The cheese melts beautifully on top, creating a satisfying, golden crust. The addition of sesame seeds adds texture and depth, making this dish a complete and balanced meal. It’s easy to make, healthy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or as a side, you’ll love how simple yet flavorful it is.

Health Benefits of this Recipe
Eggplant is low in calories and packed with fiber, making it great for digestion and heart health. It also contains antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help protect the body from free radicals. Tomatoes, peppers, and garlic add additional health benefits, such as vitamin C and anti-inflammatory properties. The fresh herbs like parsley are rich in vitamins A and K, while sesame seeds provide healthy fats and minerals like calcium and magnesium. With the combination of these wholesome ingredients, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Serving Suggestions of Baked Eggplant with Cheddar and Herbs
This baked eggplant pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or couscous for a more filling meal. You could also serve it with a side of rice or quinoa to round out the dish. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve it alongside hummus and pita bread.

Tips

• Make it vegan: To make this dish vegan, simply swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based cheese and use olive oil instead of butter to grease the pan.
• Add other vegetables: You can customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the dish.
• Make it spicier: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the vegetable mixture for an extra kick.
• Prepare in advance: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Variations to Try

• Stuffed eggplant: Instead of layering the eggplant, you can hollow out the centers and stuff them with the vegetable mixture and cheese. Bake the stuffed eggplants until the filling is golden and bubbly.

• Herb variations: Try using fresh basil, oregano, or thyme in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Meat version: Add cooked ground beef, lamb, or chicken to the vegetable mixture for a more filling, meaty version of this dish.

Conclusion
This baked eggplant with cheddar and herbs is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, packed with healthy vegetables, and topped with a creamy, cheesy glaze that makes every bite satisfying. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With endless variations and customization options, it’s a versatile recipe that you’ll enjoy again and again.