Name: Italian Pesto Parmesan Eggplant Stacks Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup homemade or store-bought marinara sauce; 1 cup fresh basil pesto; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Introduction

These Italian Pesto Parmesan Eggplant Stacks are a delicious and vibrant way to enjoy eggplant. Layers of tender eggplant, rich basil pesto, marinara sauce, and gooey cheeses come together to create a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

A stack of two thick, round eggplant slices with crispy, golden-brown breaded edges sits in the center of a white plate. Each eggplant slice is topped with melted creamy white cheese, sprinkled with bright green chopped herbs and small, vibrant red diced tomatoes. A green herb sauce with a slightly oily texture is generously drizzled over the stack and pools around the base on the white marbled surface. The herbs and sauce add a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich, browned edges of the eggplant. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup homemade or store-bought marinara sauce
1 cup fresh basil pesto
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Sprinkle the eggplant rounds with sea salt and let them rest for about 15 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Cook the eggplant slices in batches for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In a baking dish, pour a thin layer of marinara sauce to cover the bottom. Layer half of the eggplant rounds on top of the sauce.
Step 5: Spread half of the basil pesto over the eggplant, followed by half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
Step 6: Repeat the layering process with the remaining eggplant, basil pesto, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
Step 7: Season the top with freshly ground black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 8: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 9: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 10: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Tips & Variations

For a healthier twist, consider grilling the eggplant slices instead of frying them to reduce oil absorption.
Enhance the dish by adding layers of sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For best texture, reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated evenly.

How to Serve

A dish showing two thick eggplant slices stacked on a white plate, each slice coated in a golden-brown crispy crust with melted white cheese on top. The cheese is slightly browned and bubbly, with a vibrant green herb sauce and small pieces of red tomato scattered over and around the eggplant. The sauce looks oily and fresh, pooling gently at the base, and the whole presentation is against a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use jarred pesto and marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought pesto and marinara sauces work well and save time. Choose good-quality versions for the best flavor.

Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Absolutely. This recipe contains no meat and relies on vegetables, cheese, and herbs, making it a flavorful vegetarian option.