5 Delicious Eggplant Parm Recipes You'll Love

Eggplant Parmesan, or Melanzane alla Parmigiana, is a beloved Italian dish known for its layers of rich flavors, tender eggplant, and gooey cheese. Whether you're a fan of traditional cooking methods or looking for something a bit more adventurous, eggplant parm recipes have a versatility that can satisfy any palate. In this post, we'll explore five mouth-watering recipes that show off the incredible potential of this simple yet delicious vegetable.

Classic Eggplant Parmesan

The classic Eggplant Parmesan recipe remains a staple in many households due to its delightful balance of flavors and textures:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Ingredients:
  • 2 large eggplants
  • Salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2-3 eggs, beaten
  • 3 cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

How to Prepare:

1. Salting the Eggplant: Cut the eggplants into 1/4 inch rounds and lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle both sides with salt and let them rest for at least 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Breading and Frying: Rinse the eggplant, pat dry, then dredge in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Fry in hot oil until golden on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
3. Layering: Start with a layer of sauce in a baking dish, then alternate with fried eggplant slices, sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
4. Baking: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
5. Garnish: Top with fresh basil before serving.

🏡 Note: You can reduce the oiliness by baking the breaded eggplant slices at 400°F (200°C) instead of frying, though it will change the texture slightly.

Eggplant Parmesan Stacks

If you prefer something a bit more visually appealing, try this layered take on eggplant parm:

• Ingredients (adjust from the classic recipe):
  • 1 large eggplant
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh mozzarella, sliced

How to Prepare:

1. Prepare the eggplant as in the classic recipe but slice it into circles.
2. Grill or bake the slices until they are tender, not too soft.
3. Create stacks by layering eggplant with mozzarella, a spoonful of marinara, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
4. Bake the stacks at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese melts.
5. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and minced garlic before serving.

🌿 Note: Fresh ingredients like basil and extra-virgin olive oil can elevate the dish significantly.

Sicilian Eggplant Parm

Let’s give a nod to the Sicilian version with its unique addition of anchovies and capers:

• Ingredients (besides the basics):
  • 2-3 anchovy fillets, chopped
  • ¹⁄₄ cup capers, drained

How to Prepare:

1. Prepare the eggplant as in the classic recipe.
2. Add anchovies to the marinara sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Incorporate capers into the layering process for a slight tang.
4. Bake as usual but serve with a sprinkle of capers on top.

🍔 Note: For a true Sicilian touch, try using the sweeter, purple-striped eggplant if available.

Vegan Eggplant Parmesan

For those following a plant-based diet, here’s a recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor:

• Ingredients (vegan alternatives):
  • Nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan
  • Vegan mozzarella
  • Use panko breadcrumbs without eggs for breading

How to Prepare:

1. Prepare the eggplant, salting, and breading as in the classic recipe but use panko and nutritional yeast.
2. Instead of egg wash, use a mixture of water and ground flaxseed.
3. Use vegan cheese and a rich tomato sauce.
4. Bake as usual and garnish with fresh herbs.

🌱 Note: Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, making this dish just as satisfying as its dairy version.

Eggplant Parmigiana Rolls

Offering an elegant twist, Eggplant Parmigiana Rolls are perfect for dinner parties or a change of pace:

• Ingredients (same as classic but for ricotta):
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

How to Prepare:

1. Slice the eggplant lengthwise and prepare it as for the classic recipe.
2. Spread ricotta cheese on each slice, roll it up, and arrange in a baking dish.
3. Pour marinara sauce over, top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

📖 Note: You can also stuff the rolls with spinach or other fillings for added variety.

In this culinary journey through Eggplant Parmesan, we've discovered the dish's versatility. Whether you enjoy it in its classic form, as a stacked appetizer, or with a unique regional twist like the Sicilian variant, there's an eggplant parm recipe to suit every taste and occasion. By embracing these variations, you can not only make this traditional Italian dish your own but also delight in the many flavors eggplant can offer when paired with cheese, sauce, and the right seasonings.

Why do I need to salt the eggplant?

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Salting the eggplant removes excess moisture, which helps in achieving a less soggy and more flavorful dish.

Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

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Yes, you can prepare it ahead and keep it refrigerated or even freeze it before baking. Just make sure to extend the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How can I make this dish healthier?

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You can bake the breaded eggplant instead of frying, use less cheese, or opt for a vegan version with plant-based cheeses.