Vegan Eggplant Recipes With Tomato Sauce

Craving a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal? Look no further! We've gathered two incredibly flavorful eggplant and tomato recipes that are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that's both simple and rewarding. Let's dive in!

Roasted Eggplant and Tomato Sauce Stacks | Vegetarian Dinner Recipe

Imagine layers of perfectly roasted eggplant, interspersed with a vibrant and aromatic tomato sauce. These Roasted Eggplant and Tomato Stacks are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to meat-based dishes. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the eggplant, while the tomato sauce adds a tangy and savory element. This is one dish you'll want to make again and again!

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly salt the eggplant slices and place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step helps prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy during roasting. After 30 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels.
2. Roast the Eggplant: Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. The edges should be slightly caramelized.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: While the eggplant is roasting, prepare the tomato sauce. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
5. Assemble the Stacks: Once the eggplant is roasted and the tomato sauce is ready, it's time to assemble the stacks. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a casserole dish, spoon a small amount of tomato sauce onto the bottom. Then, place an eggplant slice on top of the sauce. Add a slice of tomato, followed by another spoonful of tomato sauce. Repeat these layers, using about 3-4 slices of eggplant and tomato per stack.
6. Bake (Optional): If you're adding cheese, top each stack with a slice of fresh mozzarella or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Place the baking sheet or casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly (if using). If you prefer to serve the stacks without baking, you can simply assemble them and serve immediately.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the stacks from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy! You can serve these stacks as a main course or as a side dish. They pair well with a simple salad or crusty bread for dipping into the delicious tomato sauce.

Tips and Variations:

• For a smoky flavor, grill the eggplant slices instead of roasting them.
• Add other vegetables to the stacks, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Use different types of cheese, such as ricotta or goat cheese.
• For a richer flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomato sauce.
• If you don't have fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead.
• To make it vegan, omit the cheese.

Eggplant in Tomato Sauce Recipe - Eat Something Vegan

This Eggplant in Tomato Sauce recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. Simple to make, it features tender eggplant simmered in a rich and savory tomato sauce. The eggplant absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, creating a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. This vegan recipe is a great way to enjoy the versatility of eggplant and is perfect served over pasta, rice, or simply with a side of crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, peeled and cubed
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Vegan Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Place the cubed eggplant in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step helps to reduce bitterness and prevent the eggplant from becoming too mushy. Rinse the eggplant thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Eggplant and Tomato Sauce: Add the cubed eggplant to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften and brown slightly. Pour in the crushed tomatoes.
4. Season and Simmer: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful the dish will become, and the eggplant will become even more tender.
5. Check for Tenderness: After simmering, check the eggplant for tenderness. It should be soft and easily pierced with a fork. If it's still too firm, continue to simmer for a bit longer.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread. You can also sprinkle with vegan Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• For a deeper flavor, roast the eggplant in the oven before adding it to the sauce.
• Add other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Use different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika.
• For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• If you don't have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley instead.
• Serve with a dollop of vegan ricotta cheese for a creamy texture.

These two eggplant and tomato recipes offer a delightful range of flavors and textures. Whether you prefer the elegant presentation of the Roasted Eggplant and Tomato Stacks or the comforting simplicity of the Eggplant in Tomato Sauce, you're sure to find a new favorite vegetarian dish. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!

Both of these dishes are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your personal preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to create your own unique version. Cooking should be a fun and creative process, so let your imagination run wild!

Remember to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and add salt, pepper, or other spices as needed. The key to a great dish is to balance the flavors and create a harmonious blend that tantalizes your taste buds.

And finally, don't forget to share your creations with friends and family. Cooking is a wonderful way to bring people together and create lasting memories. So, invite your loved ones over for a delicious vegetarian feast and enjoy the company of good food and good friends!

Happy cooking!