This Eggplant Spinach Bake is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of eggplant, spinach, tomatoes, and cheese. Perfect as a main course or a hearty side, this bake is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 eggplants
• 3 tomatoes
• 140g spinach (5 oz)
• 4 tbsp ricotta or cottage cheese
• 1 garlic clove, grated
• 200g cheese (7 oz), shredded
• Tomato sauce (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Basil (to taste)
• Olive oil (as needed)

Preparation Process

1. Washing and Slicing the Eggplants:

1. Wash the Eggplants:
   • Wash the eggplants thoroughly under running water.
2. Slice the Eggplants:
   • Remove the stems and slice the eggplants into oblong strips, approximately 1 cm wide.

2. Seasoning and Layering:

1. Arrange Eggplant Strips:
   • Grease a baking pan with olive oil. Arrange a layer of eggplant strips in the pan.
2. Season the Eggplants:
   • Season with salt, black pepper, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil.
3. Repeat Layers:
   • Repeat the layering process until all eggplant slices are used.
4. Bake the Eggplants:
   • Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 20 minutes.

3. Preparing the Spinach and Cheese Mixture:

1. Wash and Season the Spinach:
   • Wash the spinach and season with your favorite spices.
2. Mix Spinach and Cheese:
   • In a bowl, combine the spinach with ricotta or cottage cheese. Add grated garlic for extra flavor and mix well.

4. Assembly and Baking:

1. Layer the Baked Eggplant:
   • Once the eggplants are baked, layer the strips in a baking dish with the spinach and cheese mixture.
2. Add Tomatoes and Cheese:
   • Top with sliced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of tomato sauce.
3. Repeat Layers:
   • Repeat the layering process as needed, ending with a layer of cheese and tomato sauce on top.
4. Bake the Assembly:
   • Bake in the preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

1. Presentation:
   • Serve the Eggplant Spinach Bake hot, straight from the oven.
2. Pairing:
   • Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal experience.

Customization Options

1. Ingredient Variations:
   • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, feta, or Parmesan, for a unique flavor profile.
2. Additional Vegetables:
   • Add extra depth by including additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini in the layers.

Health Benefits

This Eggplant Spinach Bake is packed with nutrients. Eggplants are rich in fiber and antioxidants, spinach provides iron and vitamins, and cheese adds calcium and protein. This dish is a wholesome choice for a balanced diet.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 8g
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 400mg

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.

Conclusion

This Eggplant Spinach Bake is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s easy to customize to your taste. The combination of tender eggplant, creamy spinach mixture, and melted cheese makes for a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Enjoy this bake as a comforting dinner or a delightful side dish!