Deconstructed Crispy Eggplant Bake (WFPB, Oil-Free, Dairy-Free)
Deconstructed Crispy Eggplant Bake (WFPB, Oil-Free, Dairy-Free) is slices of tender, oven-crisped eggplant layered with a vibrant tomato sauce and crumble topping without the fuss of assembling a traditional eggplant parmesan. This dish is free from oil and dairy, making it an ideal choice for
Post Date: May 21, 2024
Posted by: Donna SpencerThis post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure here.
health-conscious individuals. The star of the dish is the eggplant, which is sliced thinly and oven-baked to achieve a crispy texture without the need for any oil. This preparation method not only ensures a delightful crunch but also maintains the eggplant’s natural flavors and nutritional benefits.
The Magic
The magic of this dish lies in its deconstructed nature saving you time and from the fuss with making a traditional eggplant Parmesan casserole. Each component shines while harmonizing beautifully when combined. The baked eggplant slices are layered with a robust tomato sauce, bursting with flavors of ripe tomatoes adding a rich, savory depth that complements the mild, slightly sweet taste of the eggplant.
To finish off the Deconstructed Crispy Eggplant Bake with a burst of flavor and texture, a topping of chopped tomatoes, breadcrumbs, tofu, and Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute mix is added. The chopped tomatoes provide a fresh, juicy bite, complementing the baked eggplant and rich tomato sauce. The breadcrumbs bring an additional layer of crunch, while crumbled tofu offers a subtle, hearty texture that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients. The 21 Seasoning Salute mix from Trader Joe’s ties everything together with its vibrant blend of spices, including onion, black pepper, celery seed, cayenne pepper, parsley, basil, marjoram, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, savory, rosemary, cumin, mustard, coriander, garlic, carrot, orange peel, tomato, lemon juice powder, and citric acid. This combination creates a flavorful, aromatic topping that elevates the dish to new heights, making each bite a delightful explosion of tastes and textures.
Leftovers are great on Italian or French bread with the addition of extra sauce, making for a quick and tasty sandwich or open-faced toast.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner option or an appetizer starter to impress at a dinner party, the Deconstructed Crispy Eggplant Bake is a versatile and delectable choice that caters to a variety of dietary needs while delivering on flavor and satisfaction.
Grocery List
Produce
eggplant
tomatoes
Pantry
firm tofu
breadcrumbs
Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute or other seasoning mix
Misc
Plant-Powered Bliss Vegan Parmesan Magic
salt
pepper
Add-Ins and Substitutions
The crispy topping is also fantastic on other vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. If you decide to make this recipe with cauliflower or another firmer vegetable, bake the slices until al dente for the initial bake. This will ensure they maintain a perfect texture before adding the delicious topping.
Storing
Store these in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a traditional or a toaster oven weeks.
Nutrition 411
Eggplant provides a good amount of fiber, vitamins and minerals in few calories. They are high in anthocyanins, a pigment with antioxidant properties that can protect against cellular damage. Some studies have found that eggplants may improve heart function and reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, though research is needed. Their high fiber content and polyphenols may help reduce blood sugar levels. Lastly, eggplants contain solasodine rhamnosyl glycosides, which test-tube studies indicate may aid in cancer treatment.
Tomatoes are low in carbs. The carb content consists mainly of simple sugars and insoluble fibers. These fruits are mostly made up of water. They are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K, and folate. The lycopene in tomatoes is one of the most abundant plant compounds in tomatoes. It’s found in the highest concentrations in tomato products, such as ketchup, juice, paste, and sauce. Studies show that tomatoes and tomato products may reduce your risk of heart disease and several cancers. This fruit is also beneficial for skin health, as it may protect against sunburns. (Trusted source.)
Deconstructed Crispy Eggplant Bake (WFPB, Oil-Free, Dairy-Free)
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant sliced into ¼-inch-thick rounds
- 1 cup diced plum tomatoes
- 3 sprigs basil
- ¾ cup bread crumbs
- ½ cup firm tofu crumbled
- 2-3 tbps. vegan parmesan cheeze
- 1 tbsp. Trader Joe's 21 Seasoning Salute spice blend
- kosher salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1-2 cups prepared tomato sauce (try Healthy Pumpkin Vodka Sauce or Italian Beet Tomato Marinara Sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- Cut eggplant into 1/4 inch slices and layer in baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake eggplant about 15 minutes.
- While eggplant to baking, assemble topping. Chop tomato. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumb, crumbled tofu, chopped tomatoes, vegan parmesan, and seasoning mix.
- Top each eggplant round with 1-2 tablespoons of prepared tomato or marinara sauce. Place 1/4 cup or slightly more of the breadcrumb mixture on top of sauce.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until eggplant is fork tender. Place two rounds on each plate as a main entree or one on each plate as an appetizer.
- Garnish with torn basil or flat parsley leaves. Serve.
Notes
More Eggplant PF Recipes
Dark Chocolate Almond Eggplant Torte (Vegan)
WFPB Grilled Eggplant Tomato Basil Lemon Pesto Salad
Eggplant Tacos
Easy Sunday Supper Eggplant Calzones
Eggplant Artichoke Carrot Tops Basil Pesto with Hummus
AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE
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