ADVERTISEMENT
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Layer Eggplant:
Start by placing a layer of the baked eggplant slices at the bottom of the dish.
Add Spinach Mixture:
Spread half of the spinach and ricotta mixture over the eggplant slices.
Add Tomatoes & Mozzarella:
Layer sliced tomatoes on top of the spinach mixture, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Add Marinara Sauce:
Pour a few spoonfuls of marinara sauce over the mozzarella.
Repeat Layers:
Repeat the layers with the remaining spinach mixture, tomatoes, mozzarella, and marinara sauce.
Finish with Eggplant:
Finish with a top layer of eggplant slices and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
See also HomeOatmeal Pancakes Recipe
Bake the Casserole:
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
Pair with a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
For a heartier dinner, serve alongside a bowl of pasta or quinoa.
Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick of spice.
Cooking Tips:
For a richer flavor, sauté the spinach in a bit of olive oil before mixing it with the ricotta.
For extra crispiness, grill the eggplant slices lightly after baking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
To avoid excess moisture, salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 10 minutes before cooking.
For a gluten-free option, ensure the marinara sauce is free of gluten.
Nutritional Benefits:
Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, helping with digestion and promoting satiety.
Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that support overall health.
Ricotta cheese provides protein and calcium for strong bones and muscles.
Olive oil is a healthy source of fats that promote heart health.
Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that supports skin health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian-friendly
Rich in fiber
Good source of calcium from ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese
High in vitamins from spinach and tomatoes
Low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those watching their carb intake
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 420mg
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
This Eggplant and Spinach Ricotta Casserole is a flavorful, cheesy dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side, it’s a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion!
ADVERTISEMENT
