ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the eggplant until it’s tender and slightly caramelized, while the mozzarella melts into a gooey, bubbly layer on top.
2. Prepare the Eggplant
Slice the eggplant into rounds, about 1/2-inch thick. Place the slices on a cutting board or flat surface and sprinkle them with salt. This will help draw out any excess moisture and reduce bitterness. Let the eggplant sit for about 20-30 minutes, then gently pat the slices dry with paper towels.
3. Roast the Eggplant
Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of each slice and season with salt, pepper, and oregano (or basil). Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and slightly golden on the edges.
4. Assemble the Dish
Once the eggplant is roasted, remove it from the oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Begin layering the eggplant slices on a baking dish or a sheet pan. Top each slice with a spoonful of cherry tomatoes, a few slices of olives, and a generous portion of mozzarella. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired to enhance the flavors.
5. Bake to Perfection
Return the assembled dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned. The tomatoes should be softened, and the eggplant will be perfectly tender.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the dish is baked, remove it from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately as a main course or a side dish.
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: If you want to turn this into a complete meal, add cooked chicken breast, ground beef, or even tofu to the eggplant layers for extra protein.
- Herb Variations: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added for extra flavor. Fresh herbs will really bring out the Mediterranean vibe in the dish.
- Make It Spicy: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your meals. The spice will contrast beautifully with the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes.
- Make It Vegan: To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply swap out the mozzarella for a plant-based cheese or skip the cheese entirely and use a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Why This Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Olives is a Winner
This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The eggplant becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, the mozzarella creates a creamy base, and the cherry tomatoes and olives provide a burst of fresh, tangy flavor. Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables, follow a Mediterranean diet, or simply crave something flavorful, this recipe hits the spot.
It’s also a great way to introduce eggplant to those who might not have tried it before. With its mild flavor and satisfying texture, it’s a great way to incorporate this healthy vegetable into your meals. Plus, it’s an impressive dish that’s easy enough to make for weeknight dinners but elegant enough for entertaining guests.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that combines the goodness of roasted vegetables, cheese, and Mediterranean flavors, this Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Olives is the perfect choice. It’s simple, healthy, and bursting with flavor—a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation. Try it today, and let the rich flavors and textures take you on a delicious Mediterranean journey!
ADVERTISEMENT
