These Eggplant Parmesan Bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that combines crispy breaded eggplant with rich marinara sauce and melted Parmesan cheese. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Serve them as an appetizer at a party or enjoy them as a satisfying snack. The combination of flavors and textures in these bite-sized treats will leave you craving for more. Try this recipe today and impress your guests with these delicious Eggplant Parmesan Bites.
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each eggplant round into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drain off, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the eggplant to ensure they adhere.
- Place the breaded eggplant rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spoon a small amount of marinara sauce onto each eggplant round.
- Top each round with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Interesting Facts
Eggplants are technically a fruit, belonging to the nightshade family, alongside tomatoes and potatoes.
Eggplants are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Parmesan cheese is named after the Italian provinces of Parma and Reggio Emilia, where it originated.
The first recorded recipe for Eggplant Parmesan appeared in 1694 in a cookbook by Antonio Latini, an Italian chef.
Eggplant Parmesan is a popular Italian-American dish that has gained worldwide recognition.