Eggplant Parmesan

This is it, the recipe I used the day before going into labor, coincidence or not.(serves 2-4)

What you need:

*one large purple eggplant

* about ¼ cup olive oil for pan plus a little extra if needed during cooking

* favorite tomato sauce (we use Wegmans brand)

*block of mozzarella cheese

*Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (I favor Progresso)

* 2 eggs whisked with a little milk, salt and pepper for basting

* small container of ricotta cheese

* grated parmesan cheese

Simply slice the eggplant into round disks about ¼ of an inch thick, discard top stem. ( If slices are too thick, it doesn’t sauté thoroughly enough for my taste.) Heat about ¼ inch of olive oil in a large fry pan. Meanwhile, dredge each piece of eggplant first in the egg mixture and then bread crumbs. Keep on a plate until ready to sauté. Once olive oil is hot enough (I test by flicking a few water droplets at it to see if it spits) gently place breaded eggplant slices around outer edge and fill in until pan is full but not overlapping. Cook until each side is golden brown and easily pierce-able. Place on paper towel when done to absorb oil. In a slightly greased baking dish, place a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Place eggplant in rows neatly on bottom. Layer each piece with a dollop of ricotta, tomato sauce, and thin slice of mozzarella. I use a total of 2-3 slices per stack...but always finish with a thicker slice of mozzarella cheese on top of a sauce covered eggplant slice. Sprinkle dish with Parmesan cheese for final touch.

Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes at 350 degrees until cheese on top is golden brown.( Sometimes I will put the broiler on for about 2 minutes at the end just to top it off. ) We are not HUGE spaghetti –side-dish-eaters so we usually have it with a large salad, French bread, and a green vegetable like broccoli.

Being conservative with the sauce until ready to serve ensures the eggplant stays nice and crispy from the sauté process...instead of just eating mush. Those who are not eggplant fans, usually find this as a pleasant alternative to the standard dish. Husband – approved.