Garlic Herb Crusted Eggplant Slices Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Herb Crusted Eggplant Slices are a delicious and crispy appetizer or side dish that combines tender eggplant with a flavorful garlic and herb breadcrumb coating. Perfect for a healthy snack or a tasty addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, and thyme), finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped herbs, breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the crust mixture.
- Step 3: Pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel. Press each slice firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides evenly.
- Step 4: Arrange the coated eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is crispy and golden brown.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a snack or side dish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Try using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- If you prefer, grill the slices instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
Storage
Store leftover eggplant slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
Can I prepare the eggplant slices ahead of time?
Yes, you can coat the eggplant slices and keep them refrigerated for up to 4 hours before baking. Avoid coating too far in advance to prevent sogginess.
PrintGarlic Herb Crusted Eggplant Slices Recipe
Garlic Herb Crusted Eggplant Slices are a delicious and crispy baked appetizer or side dish featuring tender eggplant rounds coated with a fragrant mixture of garlic, herbs, and crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfectly golden and packed with savory flavor, these slices are an easy, healthy way to enjoy eggplant with a satisfying texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Eggplant:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
Coating:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot enough to crisp the eggplant slices.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the herbs and garlic throughout the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the eggplant slices: Brush each eggplant slice lightly with olive oil on both sides. Then press each slice into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat both sides with the garlic herb crust.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the coated eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking rack to allow airflow underneath for crispiness.
- Bake until golden and crispy: Bake the slices in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the eggplant is tender.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and let the slices cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or side dish alongside your favorite main course.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular.
- Feel free to add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Brush the slices with olive oil instead of drizzling to prevent sogginess.
- Serve with marinara sauce or a garlic aioli dip for added flavor.
Keywords: eggplant recipe, garlic herb crusted eggplant, baked eggplant slices, crispy eggplant appetizer, vegetarian appetizer
