This hearty Eggplant Di Carnevalle transforms humble ingredients into a stunning main course. Layers of golden-fried eggplant slices meet a creamy mixture of ricotta, spinach, and fresh herbs, all bound together by a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. The texture is a delightful contrast of crispy eggplant and soft, savory filling. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish offers authentic Italian comfort food vibes. It’s a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table, showcasing the beautiful simplicity of vegetable-based cooking without compromising on flavor or richness.
Eggplant Di Carnevalle From Loren Martin
Description
This hearty Eggplant Di Carnevalle transforms humble ingredients into a stunning main course. Layers of golden-fried eggplant slices meet a creamy mixture of ricotta, spinach, and fresh herbs, all bound together by a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. The texture is a delightful contrast of crispy eggplant and soft, savory filling. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish offers authentic Italian comfort food vibes. It&# 226;ÂÂs a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table, showcasing the beautiful simplicity of vegetable-based cooking without compromising on flavor or richness.Ingredients
Directions
-
Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC). Lightly grease a 3-quart shallow casserole dish.
-
Slice the unpeeled eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat dry with paper towels.
-
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with 4 lightly beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs (if using, otherwise just flour and egg).
-
Dredge eggplant slices in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with bread crumbs (or just flour/egg if crumbs are omitted).
-
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices until lightly browned on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
-
In a separate bowl, combine thawed, squeezed-dry spinach with 1 beaten egg, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, oregano, basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
-
In a small saucepan, mix water, tomato paste, and 1 tbsp oil to create a thin sauce. Stir until combined.
-
Spread one-third of the tomato sauce on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
-
Layer half of the fried eggplant slices over the sauce. Spread half of the spinach-ricotta mixture over the eggplant. Drizzle with a thin layer of remaining sauce.
-
Top with half of the sliced mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers: remaining eggplant, remaining spinach mixture, remaining sauce, and remaining mozzarella.
-
Cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
-
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
-
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 103.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6.9g11%
- Saturated Fat 2.1g11%
- Cholesterol 233.1mg78%
- Sodium 78.2mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 2.2g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.8g4%
- Sugars 1.6g
- Protein 8.4g17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.