ReportWire

Tag: eggplant

  • My Favorite Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats – Easy, Hearty & Baked to Perfection

    If you’ve ever craved all the cozy flavors of Eggplant Parmesan without the frying (or guilt), these Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats are for you! They’re hearty, flavorful, and ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights. I can promise this one delivers big comfort with simple ingredients. No fancy steps—just a wholesome, family-friendly meal that feels special yet easy enough for any meatless night of the week.

    Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats feature baked eggplant halves filled with savory stuffing, topped with melted cheese and fresh basil, all served in tomato sauce in a white oval dish.

    Oriana’s Thoughts On The Recipe

    Oriana Romero, creator of Mommy's Home Cooking and egg-free baking queen.Oriana Romero, creator of Mommy's Home Cooking and egg-free baking queen.

    Eggplant has always been one of those “forgotten” veggies in my kitchen—until recently. One day, I spotted a pile of glossy, purple beauties at the market and couldn’t resist. That’s how this recipe came to life!

    Once roasted, eggplant becomes tender and flavorful—it takes on this buttery, melt-in-your-mouth quality that’s impossible to resist. These Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats are my family’s new favorite way to enjoy a meatless dinner that still feels hearty and satisfying. And the best part? You can use the scooped-out pulp for the filling, so nothing goes to waste.

    Why You’ll Want to Try My Recipe

    • All the flavor, none of the frying: Enjoy the comfort of Eggplant Parmesan without the oil or mess.
    • Weeknight-friendly: Ready in about 30 minutes with help from store-bought marinara.
    • Customizable: Add chicken, sausage, quinoa, or extra veggies—make it your own!
    • Wholesome & satisfying: One stuffed eggplant boat is filling enough for a full meal.
    • Allergy-friendly comfort food: No eggs, no stress—just pure, cozy goodness everyone can enjoy.
    oriana's signature.oriana's signature.

    Ingredients You’ll Need, Substitutions & Notes

    • Medium eggplants: These are the stars! Choose firm, shiny eggplants with no soft spots.
    • Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the eggplant roast beautifully.
    • Onion: Gives a sweet, savory base flavor.
    • Garlic: Because everything’s better with garlic, right?
    • Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade. A good-quality sauce makes a big difference here.
    • Dried oregano: Brings that classic Italian flavor we all love.
    • Salt and black pepper: To enhance and balance the flavors.
    • Plain panko breadcrumbs: Adds that irresistible crunch on top.
    • Parmesan cheese: For nutty, salty flavor.
    • Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that cheesy, stretchy topping.
    • Fresh basil: The finishing touch! Adds color and freshness before serving.

    This recipe is naturally egg, dairy, wheat/gluten, nut, peanut, soy, sesame, fish, and shellfish-free, making it suitable for most dietary needs, but always check labels for hidden allergens.

    Process Overview: Step-by-Step Photos

    Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).

    1. Prep the oven and eggplants

      Preheat your oven to 400º F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut each eggplant in half lengthwise and scoop out the center, leaving about ½ inch around the sides so they hold their shape. Save the scooped-out eggplant for later.

    2. Roast the shells

      Brush the inside of each eggplant shell with a bit of olive oil and roast, cut-side up, for 10–15 minutes, until tender. This gives them a head start, so they’re perfectly soft when filled. Set aside.

    3. Make the filling

      In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for about 3 minutes, until fragrant. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in the chopped reserved eggplant and cook until tender, about 5–8 minutes. Add 1½ cups of marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

    4. Assemble

      Spread the remaining marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish. Mix panko and Parmesan in a small bowl. Place the roasted eggplant shells in the dish, fill them generously with the sauce mixture, sprinkle the panko-Parmesan mix on top, and finish with mozzarella.

    5. Bake and serve

      Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

    Three halved eggplants are transformed into Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats, topped with tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and basil strips, then baked in a white dish filled with marinara sauce.Three halved eggplants are transformed into Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats, topped with tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and basil strips, then baked in a white dish filled with marinara sauce.

    Recipe Tips For Success

    ➤ Potential Recipe Challenges & Pro Tips:

    • Watery Sauce: The filling can get a bit loose if the sauce is too thin. Pro Tip: Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to thicken before filling the shells.
    • Don’t skip roasting the shells before stuffing—it keeps them from being undercooked later.
    • Use a sturdy baking dish that fits your eggplant halves snugly to keep them upright.
    • Want a little spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
    Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats: Eggplant halves stuffed with a savory filling, topped with melted cheese and tomato sauce, then garnished with sliced fresh basil in a white dish.Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats: Eggplant halves stuffed with a savory filling, topped with melted cheese and tomato sauce, then garnished with sliced fresh basil in a white dish.

    Variations & Additions

    • Add protein: Stir in cooked lentils or crumbled tofu to the sauce for extra heartiness.
    • Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini blend beautifully into the filling.
    • Make it extra cheesy: Sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top before baking for an extra golden crust.

    Serving Suggestions

    Serve these Eggplant Parmesan Boats with a side of garlic bread or breadsticks, a crisp green salad, or even a bowl of pasta to soak up all that sauce. They also make great leftovers for lunch the next day—just reheat in the oven until warm.

    Storage and Freezing Instructions

    To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

    To reheat: Warm in the oven at 350º F until heated through.

    To freeze: You can freeze the stuffed (but unbaked) eggplant shells for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    A halved eggplant transforms into Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats, filled with a savory mixture, topped with melted cheese and herbs, and served on a bed of tomato sauce on a white plate.A halved eggplant transforms into Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats, filled with a savory mixture, topped with melted cheese and herbs, and served on a bed of tomato sauce on a white plate.

    Try These Egg-Free Vegetarian Recipes Next!

    Recipe Card

    Eggplant Parmesan Boats | Mommyhood's DiaryEggplant Parmesan Boats | Mommyhood's Diary

    Eggplant Parmesan Boats

    Oriana Romero

    If you’ve ever craved all the cozy, cheesy comfort of Eggplant Parmesan without the mess of frying—or the guilt—these Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Boats are for you! They’re hearty, flavorful, and come together in about 30 minutes.

    Prep Time 10 minutes

    Cook Time 20 minutes

    Total Time 30 minutes

    Servings 4 servings

    You can find step-by-step photos above in the post and/or right here on the recipe card. They’ll walk you through the process and make everything super clear! Just click the camera icon button below on the right to show or hide them. Turn them off before printing if you prefer a cleaner copy!

    Prep the Eggplants:

    • To cut and scoop the eggplant, start by washing and drying it well, then place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the eggplant in half lengthwise—from the stem end to the bottom—so you have two long halves that look like little boats. If it rolls around, trim a thin slice off the bottom so it sits flat. Next, use the tip of your knife to lightly score the inside of the flesh in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to pierce the skin; this makes scooping easier. Grab a spoon (a regular tablespoon works fine) and gently scoop out the center, following the natural curve of the eggplant. Move slowly and take small scoops so you don’t tear the skin—your goal is to leave about ½ inch of the flesh all around the sides and bottom so it holds its shape when baked. Place the scooped-out flesh into a bowl; you’ll chop and cook it later for the filling. When you’re done, you should have two sturdy eggplant “boats”. Reserve the scooped eggplant.

    • Brush the inside of the eggplant shells with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and roast in the oven, with the inside facing up, for 10-15 minutes, or until tender. Set aside.

    Assemble:

    • Spread the remaining marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish.

    • Mix panko and Parmesan in a small bowl.

    • Place the eggplant shells in a baking dish; fill them with the sauce, top with panko mixture and mozzarella.

    Bake:

    • Bake in the preheated 400°F (200 º C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the sauce is bubbling.

    • Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve.

     
    Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
     
    Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350º F until heated through.
     
    Freeze: You can freeze the stuffed (but unbaked) eggplant shells for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
     
    Food Allergy Swaps:
    This recipe is naturally egg, dairy, wheat/gluten, nut, peanut, soy, sesame, fish, and shellfish-free, making it suitable for most dietary needs, but always check labels for hidden allergens.

     
    Recipe Tips For Success:
    ➤ Potential Recipe Challenges & Pro Tips:

    • Watery Sauce: The filling can get a bit loose if the sauce is too thin. Pro Tip: Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to thicken before filling the shells.

     
    ➤ Extra Tips:

    • Don’t skip roasting the shells before stuffing—it keeps them from being undercooked later.
    • Use a sturdy baking dish that fits your eggplant halves snugly to keep them upright.
    • Want a little spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

     
    ➤ Variations & Additions:

    • Add protein: Stir in cooked lentils or crumbled tofu to the sauce for extra heartiness.
    • Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini blend beautifully into the filling.
    • Make it extra cheesy: Sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top before baking for an extra golden crust.

     

    Recipe reviews on the website are extremely valuable to other readers online. So, please don’t forget to give it a 5-star rating below.

    Calories: 275kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 16gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 1247mgPotassium: 1210mgFiber: 11gSugar: 19gVitamin A: 1006IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 367mgIron: 3mg

    Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

    Course dinner

    Cuisine Italian

    Calories 275

    Keyword dinner easy eggplant meatless

    This is a compensated campaign in collaboration with Ragú® and Latina Bloggers Connect. However, all opinions expressed are my own.

    Oriana Romero

    Source link

  • Weekly Meal Plan Nov 3, 2025

    Dinnertime just got a whole lot easier! With this premade meal plan, take the stress out of mealtime. Save time and money while being inspired to try new recipes!

    Holly Nilsson

    Source link

  • Eggplant, giant peach sprouting controversy in Maryland town

    An eggplant and a giant peach are sprouting controversy on the century-old Main Street in Ellicott City, Maryland. Business owners are being told the public art is too distracting for the historic area, but they feel the towering tributes to produce are fun and add character. Now, they’re fighting to keep the fruit.A massive Georgia peach sits outside Georgia Grace Cafe, where owner Paula Dwyer was happy to see it installed several months ago.”It was this big, beautiful orange peach. And, at first, honestly, I was like, ‘Wow, this is amazing. I’ve never seen anything like it,’” Dwyer said.Across the street sits an enormous eggplant known as the Aubergine. Both produce have been popularized over texting language as playful nods to body parts.David Carney, owner of The Wine Bin, said the Aubergine has brought in business for years.”I guess I don’t quite understand the innuendo because I have one of those body parts and it doesn’t look like that and it’s not purple, so I’m not sure really how that came about. It’s kind of weird. So, it’s kind of comical that people think that,” Carney said.Now, the merchants have since been told to take the art down. Both sculptures are supported through the Fund for Art in Ellicott City.Both pieces of art were also discussed at last week’s meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission, which expressed concern about the art “detracting from the historic buildings.””The Historic Preservation Commission approved the artwork of the aubergine for 12 months, as amended by the applicant. The peach was denied at the proposed location, but the applicant may submit an application for a different location. The established process allows for the petitioner to appeal the decision or propose an alternate location for the artwork,” officials said. “History is really important. So, this is great artwork, but I guess it’s not historic enough for them,” said Ken McNaughton, an Ellicott City resident.Don Reuwer, who manages numerous Main Street properties as president of the Waverly Real Estate Group, helped gather hundreds of signatures to keep the sculptures.”Unfortunately, the chairperson told me that they weren’t interested in the petitions that actually said that the merchants are only temporary, so they don’t matter. And frankly, that was just the straw that broke the camel’s back for me,” Reuwer said.People are far from giving up on the eye-catching produce. “I feel like they fit in with the town. I mean, everyone likes them. We’re a community of business owners and people, and all of them seem to like it. So, I feel like we are the town, also, not just the history. And we are now the history,” said Mark Johnston, an Ellicott City resident. Without approval, the statues must be taken down. Those in support of art plan to appeal the decision, and are even willing to take the issue to circuit court.

    An eggplant and a giant peach are sprouting controversy on the century-old Main Street in Ellicott City, Maryland.

    Business owners are being told the public art is too distracting for the historic area, but they feel the towering tributes to produce are fun and add character. Now, they’re fighting to keep the fruit.

    A massive Georgia peach sits outside Georgia Grace Cafe, where owner Paula Dwyer was happy to see it installed several months ago.

    “It was this big, beautiful orange peach. And, at first, honestly, I was like, ‘Wow, this is amazing. I’ve never seen anything like it,’” Dwyer said.

    Across the street sits an enormous eggplant known as the Aubergine. Both produce have been popularized over texting language as playful nods to body parts.

    David Carney, owner of The Wine Bin, said the Aubergine has brought in business for years.

    “I guess I don’t quite understand the innuendo because I have one of those body parts and it doesn’t look like that and it’s not purple, so I’m not sure really how that came about. It’s kind of weird. So, it’s kind of comical that people think that,” Carney said.

    Now, the merchants have since been told to take the art down. Both sculptures are supported through the Fund for Art in Ellicott City.

    Both pieces of art were also discussed at last week’s meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission, which expressed concern about the art “detracting from the historic buildings.”

    “The Historic Preservation Commission approved the artwork of the aubergine for 12 months, as amended by the applicant. The peach was denied at the proposed location, but the applicant may submit an application for a different location. The established process allows for the petitioner to appeal the decision or propose an alternate location for the artwork,” officials said.

    “History is really important. So, this is great artwork, but I guess it’s not historic enough for them,” said Ken McNaughton, an Ellicott City resident.

    “This is great artwork, but I guess it’s not historic enough for them.”

    Don Reuwer, who manages numerous Main Street properties as president of the Waverly Real Estate Group, helped gather hundreds of signatures to keep the sculptures.

    “Unfortunately, the chairperson told me that they weren’t interested in the petitions that actually said that the merchants are only temporary, so they don’t matter. And frankly, that was just the straw that broke the camel’s back for me,” Reuwer said.

    People are far from giving up on the eye-catching produce.

    “I feel like they fit in with the town. I mean, everyone likes them. We’re a community of business owners and people, and all of them seem to like it. So, I feel like we are the town, also, not just the history. And we are now the history,” said Mark Johnston, an Ellicott City resident.

    Without approval, the statues must be taken down. Those in support of art plan to appeal the decision, and are even willing to take the issue to circuit court.

    Source link

  • Baba Ganoush Recipe

    This fresh and flavorful baba ganoush is made with roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, then blended until it’s smooth and creamy for the perfect dip or spread.

    top view of plated Easy Baba Ganoush with pita bread

    What is Baba Ganoush?

    Similar to chickpea-based hummus, baba ganoush is a creamy Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dip or spread. It’s often served with pita bread, pita chips, crackers, chips, hunks of a sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.

    • Flavor: With smoky, earthy flavor and a light, creamy texture, this dip is perfect as a spread or appetizer.
    • Skill Level: This dip is so easy to make! Just roast, blend, season, and serve.
    • Prep Note: Use leftover grilled or roasted eggplant.
    • Serving Suggestions: Scoop it up with homemade crostini or make it the centerpiece of an antipasto platter.
    • Freezing: Baba ganoush freezes beautifully and thaws quickly for last-minute gatherings and get-togethers.

    Ingredient Tips for Baba Ganoush

    • Eggplant: Low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins, eggplant is the perfect foundation for this simple baba ganoush recipe. Look for firm, unblemished eggplants without any bruises or tears. Chinese or Japanese eggplants are the perfect variety for cutting into uniform slices.
    • Seasonings: Baba ganoush gets its classic flavor from the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes. You can buy or make your own tahini.
    • Variations: No tahini? Use Greek yogurt, cashew, almond, or sunflower butter instead. Smoked paprika, cumin, or a little Cajun seasoning will also enhance the flavor of homemade baba ganoush.
    • Garnishes: Sprigs of fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil can all be used. Pomegranate seeds, pumpkin seeds, and toasted walnuts add a pop of color and flavor to this simple recipe.
    blended ingredients in food processor to make Easy Baba Ganoush
    • If using fresh lemon juice, zest some of the peel to use as a garnish.
    • For the best results, pulse the dip briefly, taking care not to make it too smooth (it will get watery).
    • For a chunkier texture, try mashing the eggplant by hand instead of blending.
    • Chill the baba ganoush in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

    Dip, Store, Repeat

    Keep leftover baba ganoush in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir and add a little fresh lemon juice to bring the flavor up again before serving. Freeze portions in zippered bags for up to one month and thaw in the refrigerator (it will be a bit watery).

    Serve in the cap of a grilled portobello mushroom, or as a spread on a turkey wrap for a portable workday lunch.

    Delicious Vegetarian Dips

    Did you make this Baba Ganoush? Leave us a rating and comment below.

    image of Everyday Comfort cookbook by Holly Nilsson of Spend With Pennies plus text
    Easy Baba Ganoush in a bowl

    5 from 13 votes↑ Click stars to rate now!
    Or to leave a comment, click here!

    Baba Ganoush Recipe

    Baked eggplant, tahini, and garlic come together for an easy baba ganoush recipe. It’s perfect with pita, crackers, or veggies.

    Prep Time 10 minutes

    Cook Time 45 minutes

    Cool Time 20 minutes

    Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

    • Preheat oven to 400°F.

    • Poke eggplant with a fork and bake directly on the rack until tender, about 45-50 minutes.

    • Cool and peel the eggplant.

    • In a food processor or blender, place eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Process until smooth.

    • Stir in parsley & salt. Top with olive oil and red pepper flakes.

    Baba Ganoush can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 
    Freeze for up to 3 months. For the best texture, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir before serving. 

    Calories: 91 | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 151mg | Potassium: 314mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 158IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg

    Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

    Course Appetizer, Dip
    Cuisine Mediterranean
    simple Easy Baba Ganoush in a bowl with pita bread and a title
    rich and tangy Easy Baba Ganoush with writing
    plated Easy Baba Ganoush with writing
    Easy Baba Ganoush in a bowl and close up photo with a title

    Holly Nilsson

    Source link

  • Weekly Meal Plan Aug 5, 2024

    Weekly Meal Plan Aug 5, 2024

    Dinnertime just got a whole lot easier! With this premade meal plan take the stress out of meal time. Save time and money while being inspired to try new recipes!

    Holly Nilsson

    Source link

  • Eggplant Lasagna Recipe | Kitchen Nostalgia

    Eggplant Lasagna Recipe | Kitchen Nostalgia
























































    Eggplant Lasagna Recipe | Kitchen Nostalgia






    Top