Crispy Baked Eggplant with Lentils

Crispy Baked Eggplant with Lentils is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of roasted eggplant with protein-packed lentils, perfect for a healthy midnight snack. The crispy texture of the baked eggplant adds an irresistible crunch, making it a satisfying meal any time of day.

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant - 300 grams
• 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils - 200 grams
• 2 tablespoons olive oil - 30 ml
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 5 grams
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 5 grams
• 1/2 teaspoon salt - 3 grams
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1 gram
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 25 grams
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley - 8 grams
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 15 ml

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Slice the eggplant into 1 cm thick rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
3. Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
4. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and the remaining salt.
5. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with the oil mixture and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake the eggplant slices in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, heat the cooked lentils over low heat and stir in the lemon juice, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt.
8. Once the eggplant is done, remove it from the oven and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each slice.
9. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve the crispy eggplant with the seasoned lentils on the side.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

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

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