Mediterranean Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
March 21, 2017Eggplant Parmesan with Whole Wheat Pasta
Explore a recipe for eggplant Parmesan with whole wheat pasta, offering a healthy and satisfying alternative for a comforting dinner.
Development
Eggplants are rich in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting fullness. Whole wheat pasta provides complex carbohydrates and additional fiber for sustained energy.
Recipe
Eggplant Parmesan with Whole Wheat Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups whole wheat pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
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Preparing the Eggplant:
- Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out bitterness. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
- Dip each slice into beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
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Frying the Eggplant:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Assembling the Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
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Baking:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Cooking the Pasta:
- Meanwhile, cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Serving:
- Serve eggplant Parmesan hot over cooked whole wheat pasta.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Eggplant Preparation: Salting the eggplant slices helps remove excess moisture and bitterness.
- Baking Time: Covering the dish with foil ensures the eggplant cooks through and the cheese melts evenly.
- Sauce Options: Customize with your favorite marinara sauce or make a homemade tomato sauce with garlic and herbs for added flavor.
Summary:
Enjoy the comforting flavors of eggplant Parmesan with whole wheat pasta, a nutritious twist on a classic dish. This recipe provides a balance of fiber-rich eggplant and whole wheat pasta, combined with savory marinara sauce and melted cheese for a deliciously satisfying dinner.
Good advice
Choose nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to fuel your body with essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
