Hasselback Stuffed Baby Eggplant with Pesto and Parmesan
Experience a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish with these Hasselback Stuffed Baby Eggplants, featuring the flavorful goodness of fresh basil pesto and the rich creaminess of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This creative appetizer combines the unique hasselback technique with tender baby eggplants, allowing for a stunning presentation while maximizing flavor in every bite. Perfect for gatherings, these bite-sized morsels not only please the palate but also make for an eye-catching dish on any table. Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sophistication.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
baby eggplants
12 (washed and sliced at 1/4-inch intervals)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (divided)
basil pesto
4 ounces (spreadable)
parmigiano-reggiano cheese
2/3 cup (freshly grated)
panko breadcrumbs
1/3 cup (plain)
thyme leaves
1 teaspoon (fresh or dried)
kosher salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hasselback Stuffed Baby Eggplant?
It is a creative Italian-style appetizer where baby eggplants are sliced accordion-style and stuffed with basil pesto and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
What kind of eggplants are best for this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses 12 baby eggplants, which are ideal for bite-sized finger food.
How should I slice the eggplants?
The baby eggplants should be washed and sliced at 1/4-inch intervals, ensuring you do not cut all the way through the bottom.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly as it contains only vegetables, cheese, oil, and breadcrumbs.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2/3 cup of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for a rich and creamy flavor.
What gives the eggplant its crunchy texture?
A 1/3 cup of plain panko breadcrumbs is used to provide a crispy texture to the stuffing.
How much pesto is required?
You will need 4 ounces of spreadable basil pesto to fill the eggplant slices.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, the recipe allows for either 1 teaspoon of fresh or dried thyme leaves.
How much olive oil do I need?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of olive oil, used in divided portions.
What is the Hasselback technique?
The Hasselback technique involves making several parallel cuts into an ingredient that stop just before the bottom, allowing it to fan out when cooked.
Is this dish suitable for parties?
Yes, these bite-sized morsels make an eye-catching and flavorful appetizer for any gathering.
What can I serve with these eggplants for a more sophisticated look?
A drizzle of balsamic glaze is recommended for an extra touch of sophistication.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.
Is the eggplant peeled before cooking?
No, the baby eggplants are washed and sliced with the skin on to maintain their structure.
What kind of salt is recommended?
The recipe suggests 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, adjusted to taste.
How many eggplants does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed for 12 baby eggplants.
Can I use regular large eggplants instead?
While the technique works for large eggplants, this specific recipe is optimized for baby eggplants to be served as appetizers.
What flavor profile does this dish have?
It features a classic Italian flavor profile with notes of basil, garlic from the pesto, and salty parmesan.
Can I use a different type of pesto?
Yes, while basil pesto is traditional, you could experiment with sun-dried tomato or kale pesto for different variations.
Is this a main course?
No, this is intended to be an appetizer or finger food.
How do I ensure the eggplants stay upright?
While not explicitly in the ingredients, slicing a tiny sliver off the bottom of the eggplant can help create a flat base.
Can I prepare these in advance?
You can slice and stuff the eggplants ahead of time and bake them just before your guests arrive.
Is Parmigiano-Reggiano the same as regular Parmesan?
Parmigiano-Reggiano is the authentic Italian variety; using it provides a deeper, more complex flavor than generic parmesan.
Does this recipe contain any nuts?
Basil pesto often contains pine nuts or walnuts, so check your pesto label if you have nut allergies.
How are the ingredients applied to the eggplant?
The pesto and cheese are stuffed into the 1/4-inch intervals, then topped with breadcrumbs and oil.
Can I use vegan cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the Parmigiano-Reggiano with a vegan parmesan alternative to make the dish vegan-friendly.
What type of cuisine is this?
It is described as Italian fusion cuisine.
Is there a specific way to wash the eggplants?
Just a simple rinse and dry before slicing is sufficient for baby eggplants.
What is the purpose of the thyme?
Thyme adds an earthy, floral note that complements the basil pesto and roasted eggplant.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
It is best served warm immediately after baking to enjoy the melted cheese and crispy panko.