Eggplant is a wonderfully versatile vegetable that can transform any meal into something special. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick dinner or create something unique for guests, cooking eggplant is a fantastic choice. Today, I’ll share a straightforward and delicious eggplant recipe that you can easily make at home.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup tomato sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a nice, even cook on the eggplant.

  2. Prepare the Eggplant: Lay the sliced eggplant rounds on a baking sheet. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This not only adds flavor but helps the eggplant cook beautifully.

  3. Roast the Eggplant: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the eggplant for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until both sides are golden and slightly crispy.

  4. Sauce and Garlic: While the eggplant is roasting, heat a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce, oregano, and basil, and let simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Assemble the Dish: Once the eggplant rounds are roasted, remove them from the oven. Spoon a small amount of the tomato sauce mixture on each round, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

  6. Broil to Perfection: Put the baking sheet back in the oven, but switch to broil. Broil the eggplant for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

  7. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, add a few fresh basil leaves to each piece for a pop of color and freshness.

This eggplant recipe is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. The rich flavors of the tomato sauce combined with the gooey cheese and the fresh, meaty texture of the eggplant make this dish a surefire hit for any occasion. Serve it as a main dish, a side, or even as a hearty appetizer. Enjoy the flavors and the wonderful simplicity of this delightful eggplant dish!