Stuffed Eggplants in Rich Tomato Sauce

Stuffed Eggplants in Rich Tomato Sauce

Introduction
Stuffed eggplants are a delightful dish that combines tender eggplant flesh with a savory filling, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. This recipe brings Mediterranean flavors to your table with its simple yet satisfying ingredients. Perfect as a main dish or a hearty side, these stuffed eggplants are a hit for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into this delicious, comforting recipe.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized eggplants
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup mozzarella or feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplants: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the eggplants and slice them lengthwise, leaving the stem intact. Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch border to form a shell. Finely chop the scooped-out flesh and set it aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they soften. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and chopped eggplant flesh. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and season the mixture with salt and pepper. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften. Remove from heat and fold in the mozzarella or feta cheese.
4. Stuff the Eggplants: Place the hollowed eggplants in a baking dish. Fill each eggplant shell generously with the prepared mixture, pressing it down gently.
5. Add Tomato Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce around the eggplants in the baking dish, making sure it coats the bottom well. This will help to keep the eggplants moist while baking.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the eggplants (if using), and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the eggplants are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the eggplants from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm, scooping some of the rich tomato sauce over each eggplant for extra flavor.

Conclusion
These stuffed eggplants are a mouth-watering, healthy option that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. The tender eggplants paired with the savory filling and rich tomato sauce make this dish a flavorful and satisfying option. It’s an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. Enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired delight!