Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Olives

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped (or your preferred type of olives)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh oregano, if available)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
• Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

How to Make Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Olives

This dish is easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of hands-on time. The eggplant is roasted to perfection, and then layered with mozzarella, tomatoes, and olives to create a deliciously satisfying meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch rounds, ensuring they are roughly the same thickness for even cooking.
3. Lay the eggplant slices out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
4. Drizzle the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a brush to ensure both sides of the eggplant are coated in oil.
5. Roast the eggplant in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown around the edges. The eggplant should be soft but still hold its shape.

Step 2: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

1. Once the eggplant is roasted, remove it from the oven and top each slice with a small piece of mozzarella.
2. Add a few halved cherry tomatoes on top of each eggplant slice, followed by a sprinkling of chopped kalamata olives.
3. Sprinkle dried oregano over the top for extra flavor. If you’re using fresh oregano, you can sprinkle it on after the dish is baked to preserve its freshness.
4. Place the tray back in the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the mozzarella has melted and the tomatoes have softened.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

1. Once the mozzarella has melted and the tomatoes are tender, remove the dish from the oven.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra freshness.
3. If you like, drizzle the dish with a little balsamic glaze to add a touch of sweetness and acidity.
4. Serve immediately while the dish is warm, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Olives

• Salt the Eggplant First: If you want to remove any bitterness from the eggplant, sprinkle the slices with salt before roasting. Let them sit for 20-30 minutes, then blot off the excess moisture. This step is optional, but it can make the eggplant even more flavorful.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella works best in this dish, as it melts beautifully and has a soft, creamy texture. If you only have shredded mozzarella, that will work too, but fresh is ideal.
• Feel Free to Experiment with Toppings: You can customize the toppings to suit your taste. Try adding sautéed onions, roasted red peppers, or a handful of arugula for extra layers of flavor.
• Make it Vegan: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the mozzarella with vegan cheese or simply skip the cheese and add more olives and tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Drizzle with Olive Oil: For a richer flavor, you can drizzle the finished dish with a little extra extra virgin olive oil before serving.

Why You’ll Love Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Olives

1. Light Yet Satisfying: The roasted eggplant is hearty enough to serve as a main dish, while the mozzarella, tomatoes, and olives add both richness and freshness.
2. Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of eggplant, mozzarella, olives, and tomatoes brings the flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table.
3. Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a vegetarian main, or a light appetizer, this dish fits any occasion.
4. Nutrient-Rich: Eggplant is rich in antioxidants and fiber, and paired with the vitamins from tomatoes and the healthy fats from olives, this dish is both delicious and good for you.
5. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Variations to Try

• Add Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, sauté some garlic and drizzle it over the roasted eggplant before adding the mozzarella and tomatoes.
• Spicy Kick: Add a few red pepper flakes on top of the dish before baking for a subtle spicy heat.
• Add a Protein: If you’d like to make this dish more substantial, you can serve it with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.

Conclusion

Baked Eggplant with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Olives is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean into your kitchen. The roasted eggplant serves as a hearty base for the sweet tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy mozzarella, creating a perfectly balanced dish that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light vegetarian meal, a simple side, or a dish to share with friends, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling nourished.

So, fire up the oven, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this comforting yet healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish. It’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire!