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How to Make Melanzane alla Parmigiana (Eggplant Parmesan) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Melanzane alla Parmigiana, also known as Eggplant Parmesan, is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many for its rich and flavorful layers of eggplant, cheese, and tomato sauce. This dish is a perfect choice for a comforting and satisfying meal, and it is also a great way to enjoy the delicious flavors of eggplant.

Originating from the regions of Campania and Sicily, Melanzane alla Parmigiana has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. The traditional recipe calls for slice...

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups extra-virgin olive oil, or as needed
  • 6 eggplants, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
  • 1 bunch fresh basil
  • salt to taste
  • 1 ⅓ cups tomato puree (passata)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 18 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, drained and sliced
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano, or to taste
  • 4 ounces grated Parmesan cheese

Information

  • Prep Time: 45 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 hr 5 mins
  • Additional Time: 5 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 55 mins
  • Servings: 6

  • Pour 2 cups oil (or amount needed for a depth of 1 inch) into a deep skillet; heat over medium heat.
  • Pat eggplant slices dry with a paper towel. Set aside 4 whole basil leaves; chop remaining leaves.
  • Fry eggplant in batches in hot oil until golden, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer eggplant to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon; season with salt.
  • Simmer passata, 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic cloves, 4 basil leaves, and a pinch salt in a saucepan over medium heat for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and discard garlic cloves.
  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
  • Layer ingredients in the baking dish in the following order as many times as possible: fried eggplant, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, oregano, Parmesan cheese, and basil leaves. End with a layer of mozzarella and a drizzle of remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until heated through and cheeses are melted, about 40 minutes. Let stand a few minutes before slicing.

    • Nutrition

    506 cal.

    • Total Fat: 29g
    • Saturated Fat: 16g
    • Cholesterol: 83mg
    • Sodium: 453mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 37g
    • Dietary Fiber: 19g
    • Total Sugars: 16g
    • Protein: 29g
    • Vitamin C: 20mg
    • Calcium: 791mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 1432mg

    Categories

    Appetizer recipes
    Main recipes
    Vegetarian recipes
    Italian recipes
    Casserole recipes