Baked Eggplant and Chickpea Casserole

Baked Eggplant and Chickpea Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender baked eggplant with protein-packed chickpeas, all enveloped in a savory tomato sauce. This comforting casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is both Kosher and vegetarian-friendly.

Baked Eggplant and Chickpea Casserole
45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
350 kcal

Ingredients

  • Eggplant - 1 medium (approximately 250g)
  • Chickpeas (canned) - 1 cup (240g), drained and rinsed
  • Tomato sauce - 1 cup (240ml)
  • Olive oil - 2 tablespoons (30ml)
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Onion - 1 small, diced
  • Paprika - 1 teaspoon
  • Cumin - 1 teaspoon
  • Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
  • Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
  • Feta cheese (optional) - 1/4 cup (40g), crumbled

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Slice the eggplant into 1/2 inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce, chickpeas, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. In a baking dish, layer half of the eggplant, followed by half of the chickpea mixture. Repeat with the remaining eggplant and chickpea mixture.
  6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the eggplant is tender and slightly golden.
  8. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Carbs: 45 g
  • Fiber: 12 g
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
  • High in plant-based protein, supporting muscle health.

Tags

AmericanKosherDinner