Ingredients

1 tablespoon chopped garlic
1/4 cup olive oil ( divided )
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil ( divided )
1 can crushed tomatoes
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt ( or to taste )
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper ( or to taste )
2 large eggplants , sliced lengthwise 1/2-inch thick
8 ounces shredded smoked mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
Grilled Eggplant (Involtini Il Forno) is a classic Italian dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner with friends and family. The eggplants are cut, grilled, and then stuffed with smoked mozzarella cheese, rolled, and baked with a tomato sauce to create a deliciously flavorful vegetarian main dish. This dish is an excellent option for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. The eggplant is grilled to perfection, giving it a smoky flavor and tender texture. The tomato sauce is a great addition to the dish, adding a touch of sweetness and acidity. The smoked mozzarella cheese provides a creamy and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the smoky eggplant. Grilled Eggplant (Involtini Il Forno) is also a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or an appetizer.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2.In a small bowl, combine garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, red pepper, oregano, and half of the chopped basil.
3.In another bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4.Spread some of the tomato sauce onto the bottom of an oven-safe dish.
5.Lay a slice of eggplant flat and brush with the olive oil and garlic mixture.
6.Place a tablespoon of mozzarella cheese on one end of the eggplant slice and roll it up tightly.
7.Place the eggplant roll into the dish seam side down.
8.Continue with the remaining eggplants, arranging them in a single layer in the dish.
9.Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese and chopped basil.
10.Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

PROS

Grilled Eggplant (Involtini Il Forno) is a delicious and flavorful dish that is excellent for vegetarians and those on a gluten-free diet.

Eggplants are low in calories, but still provide many essential nutrients, making it an ideal ingredient for those watching their weight.

The cheese in the recipe is relatively low in fat, and the use of olive oil gives it healthy fats, making it a good option for overall health.

CONS

Grilled Eggplant (Involtini Il Forno) can be high in sodium, mainly if using canned tomatoes and smoked mozzarella cheese.

This dish may take a little extra effort to prepare because of the multiple steps involved.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The ingredients in Grilled Eggplant (Involtini Il Forno) have many health benefits. Eggplant, for example, contains anthocyanins, which are essential for heart health and help to prevent cancer and cognitive decline. The garlic in the recipe supports immune function and can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Olive oil offers many health benefits because of its antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Tomatoes are rich in Vitamins C and K and contain lycopene, which has been shown to reduce the risk of some cancers.

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