Millefeuille with eggplant, mozzarella, and prosciutto

Captivating Eggplant, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Millefeuille Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe History and Inspiration

Millefeuille, a word that evokes images of delicate layers of puff pastry, can be reinterpreted with our favorite ingredients! This version with eggplant, mozzarella, and prosciutto blends tradition with innovation, bringing rich flavors and varied textures to the table. Inspired by the desire to use fresh vegetables and high-quality ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a sophisticated yet simple dinner that is sure to impress.

Necessary Ingredients

- 2 medium-sized eggplants (preferably of high quality)
- 200 g prosciutto (choose a quality variant with an intense flavor)
- 300 g mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella for an authentic taste)
- 50 g grated parmesan (for an extra flavor boost)
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (for a rich taste)
- Dried basil and dried oregano (for aroma)
- Salt (to help remove water from the eggplants)

Ingredient Preparation

1. Start by washing the eggplants and slicing them thinly. Use a sharp knife to achieve even slices, about 5 mm thick. These will form the delicious layers of your dish.

2. Sprinkle a little salt on each eggplant slice and let them sit for 2-3 hours in a strainer or on a clean towel. This process will help remove water from the eggplants, reducing bitterness and improving texture.

3. After 2-3 hours, rinse the eggplants well under cold water to remove excess salt. Make sure to drain them well, either by gently pressing or using a clean towel.

4. Cut the prosciutto into smaller pieces that will fit between the layers of eggplant. If the prosciutto is very salty, there's no need to add more salt to the rest of the recipe.

5. Tear the mozzarella into small pieces. If using buffalo mozzarella, it will easily break into strips, adding creaminess to the dish.

Assembling the Dish

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C. This step is important to ensure even baking and that the eggplants become soft and delicious.

2. Choose a deeper baking dish to hold all the layers of ingredients. Start by placing a layer of eggplant slices at the bottom of the dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

3. Follow with a layer of mozzarella, then a layer of prosciutto. Continue this process, alternating between eggplant, mozzarella, and prosciutto. Create a play of textures and flavors until all ingredients are used. Ensure the last layer is mozzarella, which will form a delicious crust when baked.

4. Before placing the dish in the oven, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top and sprinkle dried basil, oregano, and grated parmesan. These herbs will enhance the flavor and give your dish an appetizing appearance.

Baking

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes. The eggplants should be soft and browned, and the mozzarella should melt and form a golden crust.

2. Check the dish after 25 minutes. If the mozzarella is not yet browned, leave it for a few more minutes, but be careful not to let it burn.

Serving

1. Once the Millefeuille is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. It will be easier to cut once it has set a bit.

2. Serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables. A bottle of dry white wine will perfectly complement this meal, adding a touch of elegance.

Practical Tips

- If you want to add a note of freshness, you can include some slices of fresh tomatoes between the layers of eggplant.
- Instead of prosciutto, you can use chicken or turkey ham for a less salty variant.
- This recipe can also be adapted for a vegetarian version by eliminating the prosciutto and adding more vegetables, such as zucchini or peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with goat cheese or feta for a different taste.

2. How can I store the Millefeuille?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

3. Can this dish be frozen?
Although it is recommended to consume it fresh, you can freeze individual portions. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in nutrients, providing an excellent combination of protein from prosciutto and mozzarella, fiber from eggplants, and healthy fats from olive oil. Eggplants are a good source of antioxidants and can contribute to heart health. Consuming fresh vegetables like eggplants helps maintain a balanced diet and can provide a feeling of fullness.

Now that you have discovered the Millefeuille recipe with eggplant, mozzarella, and prosciutto, all that’s left is to get cooking! It’s a recipe that blends tradition with innovation, perfect for a festive meal or a family dinner. Enjoy!