Description
A delicious vegan-friendly Eggplant Parmesan recipe featuring baked eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and vegan cheeses, then baked to golden perfection. This comforting Italian classic is dairy-free but can easily be adjusted with regular cheeses for a non-vegan version.
Ingredients
Eggplant and Seasoning
- 2 large eggplants, sliced
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup vegan mozzarella cheese, grated (can substitute with regular mozzarella if not vegan)
- 1 cup vegan parmesan cheese, grated (can substitute with regular parmesan if not vegan)
Other Ingredients
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
- Prepare eggplant: Lightly brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper evenly.
- Bake eggplant slices: Arrange the eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 20 minutes until tender and lightly cooked.
- Cool and reduce heat: Remove the eggplant from the oven and let cool. Lower the oven temperature to 338°F (170°C) to prepare for assembling.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a deep 8×8 inch baking dish. Layer with a portion of baked eggplant slices.
- Add sauce and cheese: Spoon a light coating of marinara sauce over the eggplant layer and sprinkle with vegan parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers: Continue layering eggplant, marinara sauce, and parmesan cheese until all ingredients are used, ensuring the final top layer is marinara sauce.
- Top with cheese: Evenly cover the top with the remaining parmesan and vegan mozzarella cheese for a cheesy crust.
- Bake to golden brown: Bake in the oven for 20 minutes until the cheese melts and turns a lovely golden brown. Cover with foil if cheese browns too quickly.
- Cool and garnish: Let the eggplant parmesan cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, chives, or torn basil leaves.
- Serve: Slice and serve alongside your favorite salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
Notes
- You can substitute vegan cheeses with regular mozzarella and parmesan if not requiring a vegan dish.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fragrant garnish.
- If you prefer, eggplant slices can be salted and drained beforehand to reduce bitterness and moisture.
- Covering the dish with foil during baking prevents browning the cheese too quickly.
- This recipe yields 6 servings, ideal for a family meal or gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian