Baked Eggplants

Eggplant Pizzette – Delicious slices of eggplant with tomatoes and cheese

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction
On a quiet evening, when the desire to prepare something simple yet delicious strikes you, the Eggplant Pizzette recipe becomes the perfect choice. These delicious slices of eggplant, topped with fresh tomatoes and melted cheese, are not only a nourishing option but also an explosion of flavors. It is a recipe that combines tradition with ease of preparation, offering a memorable culinary experience. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer at a party, these pizzette are surely a wonderful way to bring a touch of creativity to your kitchen.

Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant (approximately 300-400g)
- 2 meaty tomatoes (approximately 250g)
- 150g grated cheese (or mozzarella, for a creamier taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for greasing
- 1 teaspoon dried basil

Ingredient Details
- Eggplant: Choose a firm eggplant, free of spots and with smooth skin. This will add a rich flavor and pleasant texture to your dish.
- Tomatoes: Use seasonal, meaty, and juicy tomatoes for an intense flavor. If you want a quicker option, you can use canned tomatoes, but the fresh taste is incomparable.
- Cheese: You can experiment with different types of cheese: mozzarella for a softer texture or parmesan for a stronger flavor.

Preparation Techniques
1. Preparing the eggplant: Wash the eggplant well under cold running water. With a sharp knife, slice the eggplant into approximately 1 cm thick slices. This will allow the eggplant to bake evenly while maintaining its shape.

2. Assembling the pizzette: In a baking tray, pour a little olive oil and evenly grease the bottom. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. This will help achieve even baking.

3. Preparing the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes, peel them (if you prefer, you can leave the skin on for added texture), and cut them into small cubes. Distribute the tomato cubes evenly over the eggplant slices.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and dried basil over the tomatoes. These spices will enhance the flavors and transform the dish into a true delight.

5. Baking: Cover the tray with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the eggplant to soften. Place the tray in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 45 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the eggplant does not dry out.

6. Finishing the dish: After 45 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Leave in the oven for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

7. Serving: Remove the pizzette from the oven and let them cool slightly. You can serve them warm alongside a fresh green salad or with a side of toasted bread.

Practical Tips
- Vegetarian option: You can add other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or onions, depending on your preferences.
- For a smoky flavor: Try grilling the eggplant before baking, which will add a smoky note and depth of flavor.
- Store leftovers: If you have leftover pizzette, you can keep them in the fridge in any airtight container, and the next day they can be reheated in the oven.

Nutritional Benefits
This Eggplant Pizzette recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, vitamins B and K, while tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. The cheese adds a good source of protein and calcium. It is a recipe that combines flavor with health, making it suitable for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of cheese? Of course! Mozzarella will provide a creamier texture, while goat cheese will add a distinct flavor.
- How can I adapt the recipe for vegans? You can replace the cheese with vegan cheese or a mixture of nuts and nutritional yeast for a similar taste.
- Can the pizzette be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked pizzette. Before baking, let them thaw and then follow the baking steps.

Serving Combinations
These Eggplant Pizzette pair perfectly with a salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes or with a serving of simple pasta drizzled with olive oil and garlic. As for drinks, a fresh lemonade or a chilled white wine perfectly complements the meal.

Personal Note
This Eggplant Pizzette recipe is a tribute to simple yet flavorful culinary traditions. In every slice, you feel the warmth and love you put into the preparation. Whether you surprise your friends at dinner or treat yourself, these pizzette will bring a smile to anyone's face. Enjoy your meal!