Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large eggplant
Coating
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant: Wash the eggplant and trim off the green stem end. Optionally, peel the skin if preferred. Slice the eggplant into ½-inch thick disks. Place the sliced disks in a colander or on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet, sprinkle generously with salt, and allow to sit for at least 30 minutes to draw out moisture and reduce bitterness.
- Prepare the Coating: Melt the unsalted butter in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, mixing them thoroughly.
- Bread the Eggplant Slices: Dip each eggplant disk first into the melted butter, ensuring both sides are coated, then dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breading evenly.
- Arrange for Baking: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, then place the breaded eggplant disks on it in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake the eggplant slices for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each slice and bake for an additional 7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the breading is crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. These crispy baked eggplant slices make a great side dish, appetizer, or can be used in recipes like eggplant Parmesan.
Notes
- Salting the eggplant helps to remove excess moisture and bitterness, improving texture and flavor.
- For a lower fat option, you can substitute butter with olive oil or use cooking spray.
- If you prefer, the eggplant skin can be left on for added texture and nutrients.
- Baking on parchment paper or foil simplifies cleanup and prevents sticking.
- This recipe can be doubled or tripled to serve more people.
- Ensure eggplant slices are spaced apart to allow even baking and crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian