Savory Broiled Eggplant with Basil and Mozzarella
This delectable broiled eggplant recipe showcases the rich flavors of fresh basil and mozzarella cheese, creating a dish that is both healthy and indulgent. Unlike traditional eggplant preparations that involve frying, this recipe allows the natural flavors of the eggplant to shine through. With a bright and zesty oil mixture to enhance the taste, this dish is perfect for gatherings or as a tasty side at dinner. Ideal for large eggplants, simply adjust the cooking time for smaller varieties like Japanese eggplants. Enjoy this flavorful vegetable dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive oil
1/4 cup (for the basil mixture)
Fresh basil
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Fresh parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon
Pepper
1/8 teaspoon
Large eggplant
1 (sliced into eight 1/3-inch thick slices)
Olive oil
3 tablespoons (for brushing the eggplant)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (for sprinkling)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (for sprinkling)
Mozzarella cheese
3 ounces (cut into 1/8-inch slices)
Fresh basil sprig
to taste (for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, chopped basil, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended and set aside.
2
Preheat your broiler and lightly grease a baking sheet. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring they are well coated.
3
Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle evenly with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
4
Broil the eggplant 5 1/2 inches from the heat source, keeping the oven door slightly ajar. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until the eggplant is tender and lightly browned. Keep in mind that smaller eggplants may require less time.
5
Once broiled, layer the eggplant slices on an ovenproof platter or casserole dish, overlapping them slightly. Place the mozzarella slices evenly over the eggplant.
6
Broil for an additional minute or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
7
Before serving, whisk the reserved olive oil mixture and drizzle it generously over the hot eggplant and cheese. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil sprigs.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Broiled Eggplant with Basil and Mozzarella?
It is a healthy vegetable side dish featuring broiled eggplant topped with melted mozzarella and a zesty basil-infused oil mixture.
Is this eggplant recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy alternative to traditional fried eggplant recipes as it uses broiling to bring out the natural flavors.
How is the eggplant cooked in this recipe?
The eggplant is broiled 5 1/2 inches from the heat source for about 5 minutes on each side until tender.
What are the main ingredients for the herb mixture?
The herb mixture consists of olive oil, chopped fresh basil, chopped fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
How do I prepare the eggplant slices?
Slice one large eggplant into eight 1/3-inch thick slices and brush both sides with olive oil.
What type of eggplant works best?
This recipe is ideal for large eggplants, but you can use smaller varieties like Japanese eggplants with adjusted cooking times.
How long should the eggplant be broiled?
It should be broiled for approximately 10 minutes total, or 5 minutes per side, until tender and lightly browned.
Why should the oven door be left slightly ajar?
Keeping the oven door slightly ajar while broiling helps regulate the heat and allows air to circulate.
When do I add the mozzarella cheese?
Add the mozzarella slices after the eggplant has been broiled on both sides and layered on an ovenproof platter.
How long does the cheese take to melt?
The cheese should be broiled for about one minute until it has melted and is bubbly.
What is the thickness of the mozzarella slices?
The mozzarella cheese should be cut into 1/8-inch slices.
How much olive oil is used for the herb mixture?
The herb mixture requires 1/4 cup of olive oil.
How much olive oil is used for brushing the eggplant?
You will need 3 tablespoons of olive oil specifically for brushing the eggplant slices.
Can I use Japanese eggplant for this recipe?
Yes, Japanese eggplant can be used, but keep in mind they may require less time under the broiler.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?
Yes, its impressive presentation and savory flavors make it perfect for gatherings or as a dinner side dish.
What garnish should I use?
Garnish the finished dish with fresh basil sprigs for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Does this dish contain lemon juice?
Yes, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice are added to the oil mixture for a zesty flavor.
How much mozzarella cheese is needed?
The recipe calls for 3 ounces of mozzarella cheese.
What herbs are used in the oil mixture?
The mixture uses 2 tablespoons each of chopped fresh basil and chopped fresh parsley.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
Yes, you should lightly grease the baking sheet before arranging the eggplant slices.
What salt and pepper measurements are used for sprinkling?
Use 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper to sprinkle over the eggplant slices before broiling.
How should the eggplant be layered after broiling?
Layer the slices on an ovenproof platter or casserole dish, overlapping them slightly.
When is the oil mixture applied to the dish?
The reserved olive oil mixture is drizzled generously over the hot eggplant and cheese right before serving.
Is the eggplant fried in this recipe?
No, this recipe avoids frying, allowing the natural flavors of the eggplant to shine through the broiling process.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The dish is savory and zesty, combining the richness of mozzarella with the brightness of basil and lemon.
Can I use a casserole dish for this recipe?
Yes, an ovenproof platter or casserole dish can be used to layer the eggplant for the final melting of the cheese.
How many servings does one large eggplant provide?
One large eggplant yields approximately eight slices, typically serving 2 to 4 people as a side.
Is this recipe part of Italian cuisine?
With ingredients like eggplant, basil, and mozzarella, it is influenced by Italian culinary traditions.
Can I prepare the oil mixture in advance?
Yes, you can whisk the mixture and set it aside while you prepare and broil the eggplant.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly dish consisting of vegetables, herbs, and cheese.