Delicious Oven-Baked Eggplant Appetizer Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
  2. Slice the Eggplant: Wash the eggplants and cut them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If desired, you can peel the eggplants before slicing.
  3. Salt the Eggplant: Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet or large tray. Sprinkle both sides with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This helps to draw out any bitterness and excess moisture.
  4. Pat Dry: After 20 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Beat Eggs: In another shallow dish, beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
Step 3: Bread the Eggplant
  1. Coat with Egg Wash: Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring both sides are coated.
  2. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Then dip the eggplant slices into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs to both sides.
Step 4: Bake the Eggplant
  1. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle the tops of the eggplant slices with olive oil or use a cooking spray.
  3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant slices are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Remove from Oven: Remove the eggplant slices from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dip.

Cooking Tips and Variations

  • Cheese Variation: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano or add shredded mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Herb Addition: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.

Conclusion

This oven-baked eggplant appetizer is a delicious and healthy treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and tender eggplant creates a satisfying texture and flavor that will be a hit with everyone. Enjoy this tasty appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce and impress your guests with minimal effort.

Key Takeaway

Oven-baked eggplant appetizers are a tasty, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. This recipe is versatile and can be customized with different seasonings and dips to suit your taste. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a snack, these eggplant slices are sure to be a favorite!

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