1 serving of Eggplant Parmesan contains around 650 calories. For those who are watching their calorie intake, this dish may seem indulgent. But fear not, there are ways to make Eggplant Parmesan a healthier option without losing its authentic Italian taste.
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish also known as Melanzane alla Parmigiana. It features layers of breaded and fried eggplant slices, mozzarella cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is a great option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies to create a healthier version of this classic recipe without sacrificing flavor.
What is Eggplant Parmesan?
Eggplant Parmesan is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the region of Campania. It is typically made using slices of breaded and fried eggplant that are layered with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sometimes parmesan or ricotta cheese. This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish with other Italian favorites like spaghetti, lasagna, or garlic bread.
Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan
To make Eggplant Parmesan, you will need the following ingredients: - 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds - 1 cup of Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 large eggs, salt, pepper.
Steps to Follow for Cooking Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Here are the steps to follow to make Eggplant Parmesan: - Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). - Lay eggplant slices on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes before rinsing and drying.
Tips to Reduce Calories in Eggplant Parmesan
To make Eggplant Parmesan a healthier option, try the following tips: - Use non-stick cooking spray instead of olive oil. - Replace whole milk mozzarella cheese with part-skim mozzarella cheese.
Substitutes for High-Calorie Ingredients in Eggplant Parmesan
Here are some ingredient substitutions you can try to cut calories in Eggplant Parmesan: - Use almond flour or panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs. - Use low-fat ricotta cheese instead of full-fat ricotta cheese.
How to Serve Eggplant Parmesan?
Eggplant Parmesan can be served hot or cold. If serving hot, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This dish can be served on its own as a main course or as a side dish with other Italian favorites like spaghetti, lasagna, or garlic bread.
What to Serve with Eggplant Parmesan?
Eggplant Parmesan can be paired with a variety of sides, such as: - A green salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette - Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
Variations of Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
There are several variations of the Eggplant Parmesan recipe you can try, such as: - Chicken Parmesan with breaded chicken cutlets - Vegan Parmesan with vegan cheese and milk-free breadcrumbs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Eggplant Parmesan
Here are some commonly asked questions about Eggplant Parmesan: - Is Eggplant Parmesan vegetarian-friendly? Yes, Eggplant Parmesan is a vegetarian dish. - Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time? Yes, you can make Eggplant Parmesan one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Health Benefits of Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan contains several health benefits, such as: - Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, which can aid in digestion and weight loss. - Tomatoes are high in lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Eggplant Parmesan FAQ
1. What is Eggplant Parmesan?
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish made with slices of eggplant that are breaded, fried, and then baked in a tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
2. How many calories are in one serving of Eggplant Parmesan?
One serving of Eggplant Parmesan contains 650 calories.
3. Is Eggplant Parmesan healthy?
Eggplant Parmesan can be a healthy dish if made with fresh ingredients and prepared in a healthy way. Eggplant is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and when baked instead of fried, the dish contains fewer calories and less fat.
4. Can Eggplant Parmesan be made without cheese?
Yes, Eggplant Parmesan can be made without cheese by using a dairy-free cheese substitute or by omitting the cheese altogether. However, the dish may have a different flavor and texture without the cheese.
5. What can I serve with Eggplant Parmesan?
Eggplant Parmesan is delicious served with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, or crusty bread. A side salad with a vinaigrette dressing also complements the dish well.