Vegetarian Eggplant Parmesan

Indulge in a classic Italian favorite with a vegetarian twist: Eggplant Parmesan. This dish layers tender slices of roasted eggplant with rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb-Parmesan topping. It's a comforting, hearty meal that's perfect for any night of the week and is sure to please both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• Salt, for drawing water out of eggplant
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Lay the eggplant slices on a paper towel and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and beginning to brown.
3. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place a layer of eggplant slices over the sauce, then cover with more marinara sauce, a sprinkle of the breadcrumb mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
6. Let the Eggplant Parmesan cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your Vegetarian Eggplant Parmesan with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal. This dish is a wonderful way to savor the flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home.