Eggplant pizzette

Eggplant Pizzettes – a delicious and healthy snack

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 - 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who wouldn’t enjoy a quick and filling snack that is also healthy? Eggplant pizzettes are a tasty alternative to classic pizza, perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer at a party. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the fine texture of eggplants with your favorite ingredients, creating a dish that everyone will appreciate.

A brief history

Eggplants, native to South Asia, were first cultivated in India and made their way to Europe during the Middle Ages. These vegetables are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, being rich in antioxidants and fiber. Eggplant pizzettes have become popular as a healthy alternative to pizza, offering a gluten-free base and fewer calories.

Necessary ingredients

- 2 large eggplants (about 500 g)
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 4-5 green onions, finely chopped
- 150 g sausages (or another type of meat, such as ham or mushrooms)
- 150 g salty cheese (feta or goat cheese)
- 100 g grated cheese (optional, for a richer taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 tablespoons of ketchup (or tomato sauce)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 egg (optional, for extra creaminess)

Necessary tools

- Kitchen knife
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Spoon
- Mixing bowl

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the eggplants: Start by washing the eggplants well. Cut them into rounds about 1-1.5 cm thick. These will be the base of your pizzettes. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper greased with olive oil. This step is essential to prevent the eggplants from sticking and to give them a pleasant flavor.

2. Seasoning the eggplants: Sprinkle salt and pepper on each eggplant round. This will help draw out moisture from the eggplants, giving them a better texture and a more intense flavor.

3. Adding the ingredients: Start by spreading a thin layer of ketchup on each eggplant slice. Follow with the green onions, then the sliced or diced sausages. You can also add other ingredients, such as mushrooms or ham, according to your preferences.

4. Cheese, tomatoes, and spices: Place the tomato slices over the sausages and sprinkle with salty cheese and grated cheese, if you choose to use it. Season the pizzettes with dried oregano and thyme, and finally drizzle everything with olive oil.

5. Adding the egg (optional): If you want a creamier texture, crack an egg on top of each pizzette. This will add an extra layer of flavor.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray with pizzettes in the oven and let them bake for 25-30 minutes, until the eggplants are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.

7. Serving: Once the pizzettes are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, alongside a fresh salad or as an appetizer at a festive meal.

Serving suggestions

Eggplant pizzettes pair perfectly with a garlic and dill yogurt sauce or a green salad with lemon. A bottle of white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail will also complement the taste of this dish perfectly.

Nutritional information

Each serving of eggplant pizzettes contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This dish is rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamins A and C), and antioxidants, thanks to the eggplants and tomatoes.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other vegetables for the base? Absolutely! You can experiment with zucchini or potato slices to vary the recipe.
- Is this a vegetarian recipe? Yes, if you choose not to include sausages or meat, the pizzettes become completely vegetarian.
- How long can I keep the pizzettes? If you have leftover pizzettes, you can keep them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheating them in the oven will restore their crispiness.

Possible variations

- Instead of sausages, you can use marinated tofu for a vegan option.
- Add black olives or capers for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Substitute the ketchup with pesto for a different and intense aroma.

This eggplant pizzette recipe is not only tasty but also an excellent way to add vegetables to your diet. I encourage you to experiment with your favorite ingredients and create your unique version! Enjoy every bite and have fun cooking!