About the Recipe
Eggplant Parmigiana is one of those dishes that pleases everyone, making it perfect for a family dinner or a night with friends. This grilled version is my go-to when I want something a bit lighter without sacrificing the rich, comforting flavor of the traditional dish. Trust me, one baking dish will never be enough!
Ingredients
2 Eggplants
500g Tomato sauce
500g Mozzarella
Parmesan cheese, to taste
Fresh basil
Olive oil
Preparation
Step1
Wash and slice the eggplants into thin slices, about half a centimeter thick. Pat them dry and sprinkle with salt to draw out any excess moisture.
Step2
Brush each slice with a little olive oil and grill them on a hot grill pan. They should be soft and slightly charred on both sides. Set aside.
Step3
In a pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil and add a clove of garlic. When the garlic is golden, pour in the tomato sauce and season with salt. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, adding a few fresh basil leaves at the end.
Step4
Grab a baking dish and start with a layer of tomato sauce. Add a layer of grilled eggplant on top, then sprinkle with chunks of mozzarella and a few basil leaves along with some Parmesan. Repeat the layering process with more sauce, eggplant, mozzarella, basil, and Parmesan until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of grated Parmesan on top.
Step5
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the parmigiana for about 30-35 minutes (I recommend switching to convection mode for the last 5 minutes for that perfect golden finish).
Step6
Once it’s out of the oven, let the parmigiana rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and gives you nice, compact portions.
Tip:
For an extra crunch, you can add some breadcrumbs between the layers, or use a mix of cheeses for an even richer flavor.
Why I Love This Dish
I love Eggplant Parmigiana for its simplicity: just a few ingredients, genuine flavors, and that irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes. While I’m a fan of the original version, this recipe is perfect for those of us who want to lighten things up a bit without sacrificing taste. I love making it on chilly evenings when I crave something warm but not too heavy. It’s a dish that feels like home, full of warmth and togetherness, and it always brings everyone to the table—because let’s be honest, one baking dish is never enough!