Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant

Introduction

Indulge in the flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant recipe. This traditional dish combines eggplant, vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a satisfying and healthy meal. Whether you’re a fan of Greek cuisine or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds!

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/2-inch shell. Chop the removed flesh and set aside.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
4. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and chopped eggplant flesh. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the tomato, cooked quinoa, parsley, mint, oregano, and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Fill each eggplant shell with the vegetable mixture. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle extra feta on top.
7. Place the stuffed eggplants in the baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 40-45 minutes until the eggplant is tender.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
9. Serve the Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this Mediterranean delight that bursts with flavors and nutrients. This Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant is a perfect dish for a cozy dinner or to impress your guests with a taste of Greece.

FAQ About Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant

What is Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant?

Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant, also known as “Papoutsakia,” is a traditional Greek dish that involves hollowing out eggplants, filling them with a savory mixture of ingredients like minced meat, onions, tomatoes, herbs, and spices, and baking them until tender.

How is Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant typically served?

Once baked, the stuffed eggplants are often served hot, garnished with cheese (such as feta or Parmesan) and fresh herbs like parsley. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or accompanied by a side of Greek salad, bread, or tzatziki sauce.

What are some variations of Greek Style Baked Stuffed Eggplant?

While the classic recipe includes meat, vegetarian versions are also popular, substituting the meat with ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, or additional vegetables. Some variations may incorporate ingredients like pine nuts, raisins, or different herbs to add unique flavors.