This Eggplant Pizza recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza, bringing together the rich flavors of roasted eggplant, a hearty tomato sauce, and melted cheese on a crispy crust. It’s a perfect dish for those looking for a unique vegetarian option that satisfies the craving for pizza without the typical heavy carbs. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this dish is sure to impress both family and friends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this eggplant pizza recipe because it combines the savory, umami-rich taste of roasted eggplant with a zesty tomato sauce and gooey cheese, creating an irresistible flavor profile. It’s easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients, and can be ready in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Additionally, it’s a fantastic option for those following a vegetarian or low-carb lifestyle, allowing for a satisfying pizza experience without the guilt.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Eggplant: Opt for small to medium-sized eggplants as they tend to be less bitter and have fewer seeds. Look for smooth, shiny skin without blemishes.
- Salt the Eggplant: Before roasting, sprinkle the sliced eggplant with salt and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a more flavorful pizza.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, high-quality cheese, and homemade or good-quality store-bought tomato sauce can elevate the dish’s flavor.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as spinach, olives, or artichokes, to customize the pizza to your liking.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the eggplant ahead of time by slicing and salting it, then storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, you can make the tomato sauce a few days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Cooked eggplant can also be refrigerated and used within three days.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese Variations: Substitute mozzarella with goat cheese or feta for a different taste. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese alternatives.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy olive oil to give your pizza an extra kick.
- Herbs and Greens: Incorporate fresh basil, arugula, or spinach for added freshness and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve your eggplant pizza hot from the oven, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Pair it with a simple side salad for a light meal. Slice the pizza into wedges and serve on a wooden board for a rustic presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this delicious eggplant pizza with a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc. For non-alcoholic options, consider sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a herbal iced tea. A light dessert, like sorbet or a fruit salad, would round out the meal beautifully.
How to Store
Store any leftover eggplant pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to two months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
- Knife and cutting board for slicing the eggplant
- Mixing bowl for preparing the sauce and toppings
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pizza crust or make a cauliflower crust. Be sure to check the ingredients in your tomato sauce to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, use fresh, ripe tomatoes instead of canned for the sauce, adding a burst of freshness. In fall and winter, you might consider adding seasonal vegetables like roasted peppers or mushrooms to enhance the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use eggplant slices instead of a crust? Yes, this recipe focuses on eggplant as the base, providing a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pizza crust.
- What can I substitute for tomato sauce? You can use pesto or white sauce for a different flavor profile.
- How long does it take to cook the eggplant? It typically takes around 20-25 minutes to roast the eggplant until it’s tender and slightly caramelized.
How To Make eggplant pizza recipe
Eggplant Pizza
This Eggplant Pizza recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza, bringing together the rich flavors of roasted eggplant, a hearty tomato sauce, and melted cheese on a crispy crust.
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the eggplant into ½-inch rounds and place them in a colander. Sprinkle generously with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. - Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and oregano. Set aside.
- Arrange the eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with pepper.
- Bake the eggplant in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until soft and slightly golden.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spread a layer of sauce over each eggplant slice. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 221Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 22mgSodium 639mgCarbohydrates 22gFiber 5gSugar 9gProtein 10g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This eggplant pizza recipe is not only a celebration of flavors but also a versatile dish that can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or simply looking to switch up your pizza night, this recipe is bound to impress. With its simple preparation and hearty taste, it’s a dish you’ll want to make time and again. Enjoy crafting this delicious twist on pizza!
