Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Serving: 4 servings

 

Ingredients:

One large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds

1 cup all-purpose flour

Two large eggs, beaten

2 cups breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

One teaspoon dried oregano

One teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

 

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

In three separate shallow bowls, prepare the breading stations. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs.

In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s coated evenly.

Finally, press the eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered with the seasoned breadcrumbs.

Place the breaded eggplant bite on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for all the eggplant slices. Bake the breaded eggplant bites in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy, flipping them over halfway through to ensure even browning.

Once the eggplant bites are cooked, remove them from the oven. Top each bite with a spoonful of marinara sauce, spread it evenly, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. Remove the Eggplant Parmesan Bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Nutrition Facts: (Per serving) Calories: 320 Total Fat: 12g Saturated Fat: 5g Cholesterol: 102mg Sodium: 750mg Total Carbohydrate: 40g Dietary Fiber: 5g Sugars: 6g Protein: 14g

Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. Enjoy your delicious Eggplant Parmesan Bites as a delightful appetizer or a tasty snack!