Layered Mediterranean Mozzarella Eggplant (Aubergine) Bake

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (can use butter mixed with oil)
• 1 large onion, sliced (if you like onions, then use two)
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic (or to taste)
• salt or seasoning salt
• pepper
• 2 lbs tomatoes, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• 2 cups dry breadcrumbs (seasoned with seasoning salt, pepper and garlic powder and 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese)
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 4 egg whites, lightly beaten
• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
• 3 lbs eggplants, peeled and cut crosswise into about 3/8-inch thick slices

Directions

1. 1

   Prepare a cookie sheet and coat with non-stick cooking spray (you might need two sheets for the eggplant slices).

2. 2

   In a bowl mix bread crumbs with about 1-1/2 teaspoons seasoning salt, pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese).

3. 3

   In a shallow baking dish or bowl dip the eggplant slices in the egg whites and then coat in the seasoned bread crumb mixture.

4. 4

   Place the eggplant slices on prepared baking sheet/s and spray the eggplant slices liberally with cooking spray; set aside.

5. 5

   In a medium frypan heat the olive oil over medium heat.

6. 6

   Add in onion and garlic; cook until softened.

7. 7

   Add in oregano, 1 teaspoon salt or seasoning salt and pepper; cook for 1 minute.

8. 8

   Increase heat to high and add in the chopped tomatoes; cook until thickened (about 10-12 minutes) then remove from heat, add/mix in basil (if you are using dry basil add in with the oregano),.

9. 9

   Set oven to broil and broil the eggplant slices one pan at a time for 3-5 minutes (per side) until brown.

10. 10

    Set oven to 400 degrees.

11. 11

    Layer the eggplant slices in a greased 1-1/2 - 2-quart baking dish.

12. 12

    Top with the tomato/onion mixture.

13. 13

    Then top the slices with mozzarella cheese and remaining 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese.

14. 14

    Bake uncovered until cheese is bubbly, about 15 minutes.

15. 15

    Delicious!