Eggplant Lasagna

This Low Carb Eggplant Lasagna is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring layers of tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese. Perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative, it delivers satisfying flavors without the carbs.

Ingredients

• Eggplant - 1 medium, sliced lengthwise into 1/4 inch thick strips
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground beef or turkey - 250 grams
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Onion - 1 small, diced
• Crushed tomatoes - 400 grams (1 can)
• Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon
• Ricotta cheese - 100 grams
• Mozzarella cheese - 100 grams, shredded
• Parmesan cheese - 30 grams, grated
• Fresh basil - a handful, chopped (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Slice the eggplant and sprinkle salt on both sides to draw out moisture. Let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. While the sauce simmers, grill or bake the eggplant slices for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are tender and slightly charred.
7. In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by layers of eggplant, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let the lasagna cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbs: 15 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Total Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
• Rich in fiber and antioxidants from eggplant and tomatoes.

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