Discover the classic Italian comfort dish with this Melanzane alla Parmigiana recipe. Savor tender eggplant slices layered with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, then baked to perfection. Ideal for a hearty dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings authentic Italian flavors to your table.

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

- 2 cups marinara sauce

- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 2 large eggs, beaten

- 2 cups breadcrumbs

- 1/2 cup olive oil

- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare Eggplant: Place the eggplant slices on a paper towel, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

Bread and Fry: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in one dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in the third. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry Eggplant: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Assemble Dish: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce. Top with more marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your Melanzane alla Parmigiana with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.

Nutritional values

2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

 - Calories: About 35 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 8g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

 - Low in calories and fat.

 - High in fiber, which supports digestive health.

 - Contains antioxidants like nasunin, which may help protect cells from damage.

2 cups marinara sauce

 - Calories: About 80 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 12g

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 3g

Benefits:

 - Provides vitamins A and C.

 - Contains lycopene from tomatoes, which may support heart health.

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

 - Calories: About 320 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Protein: 24g

 - Fat: 24g

Benefits:

 - Good source of calcium and protein.

 - Adds richness and creaminess to the dish.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

 - Calories: About 80 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 8g

 - Fat: 6g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and additional protein.

 - High in calcium and can contribute to bone health.

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

 - Calories: About 110 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 23g

 - Protein: 3g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Acts as a binding agent in the breading process.

2 large eggs, beaten

 - Calories: About 70 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 5g

Benefits:

 - Provides high-quality protein and essential amino acids.

 - Contains vitamins D and B12.

2 cups breadcrumbs

 - Calories: About 350 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 70g

 - Protein: 8g

 - Fat: 3g

Benefits:

 - Adds crunch and texture to the dish.

1/2 cup olive oil

 - Calories: About 120 kcal

 - Fat: 14g (including monounsaturated fat)

Benefits:

 - Provides healthy fats that can support heart health.

 - Adds richness and flavor.

Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

 - Calories: About 1 kcal

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and freshness.

 - Contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants.

Salt and pepper to taste

- Nutritional Value (negligible)

Benefits:

 - Enhances the flavor of the dish.

This eggplant Parmesan recipe combines eggplant with a rich marinara sauce, cheeses, and breadcrumbs, resulting in a flavorful, hearty dish. Eggplant provides fiber and antioxidants, while mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add calcium and protein. The recipe also includes olive oil for healthy fats and flavor. The optional fresh basil adds a burst of freshness and additional nutrients.