Crispy Baked Eggplant with Tomato Sauce

Crispy Baked Eggplant with Tomato Sauce is a delightful midnight treat that combines the rustic flavors of baked eggplant and rich tomato sauce. This healthy dish offers a satisfying crunch while being light enough for late-night cravings.

Crispy Baked Eggplant with Tomato Sauce
45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
320 kcal

Ingredients

  • Eggplant - 1 medium (about 300g)
  • Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
  • Salt - 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder - 1 teaspoon
  • Panko breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup
  • Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup, grated
  • Canned crushed tomatoes - 400g
  • Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
  • Fresh basil - 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Slice the eggplant into 1 cm thick rounds and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and let sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
  4. In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  5. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
  6. Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  7. While the eggplant is baking, prepare the tomato sauce by heating the canned crushed tomatoes in a saucepan over medium heat.
  8. Add dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil.
  10. Serve the crispy eggplant slices hot, topped with the warm tomato sauce.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Carbs: 30 g
  • Fiber: 10 g
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Water: 0.1 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in dietary fiber which aids in digestion.
  • Low in calories, making it a healthy late-night snack option.

Tags

AmericanHealthyMidnight